Group raises concern over killings in Plateau, middle belt

The Plateau State Association, USA, Inc. (PSA-USA), a diaspora group, has expressed concern over the continued killings in Plateau State and the wider Middle Belt region, saying recent attacks on communities require urgent government attention. The National President of PSA-USA, Dr. Barth Shepkong, made this known in a press statement issued on Thursday in Abuja. […]

The Plateau State Association, USA, Inc. (PSA-USA), a diaspora group, has expressed concern over the continued killings in Plateau State and the wider Middle Belt region, saying recent attacks on communities require urgent government attention.

The National President of PSA-USA, Dr. Barth Shepkong, made this known in a press statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

The statement, titled “Statement on Christian Persecution and the Ongoing Violence in Plateau State and the Middle Belt,” outlined the group’s concerns about the security situation in several local government areas, including Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Kanam.

Dr. Shepkong said communities in these areas have experienced repeated attacks resulting in loss of lives, displacement of residents, and destruction of property and farmlands. He described the situation as severe and said many victims require urgent relief and protection.

He noted that PSA-USA believes the scale of the violence calls for stronger security measures and a more coordinated government response.
According to him, “This crisis persists partly because responses so far have not matched the gravity of the situation. Communities remain vulnerable and in need of protection.”

Shepkong urged the Federal Government to order thorough investigations into all attacks and ensure the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators. He also called for humanitarian support for displaced families, reforms in security operations, and the rebuilding of destroyed communities to enable displaced persons to return home safely.

He further encouraged the government to strengthen collaboration with international partners to improve justice mechanisms and expand humanitarian aid.

The PSA-USA president stated that through its R64 Diaspora Campaign Fund, the association continues to support internally displaced persons and community rehabilitation efforts in Plateau State.

“PSA-USA remains committed to justice, peace, and the protection of human dignity,” he said, stressing that affected communities deserve security and the opportunity to live safely in their ancestral homes.