Berom Diaspora Coalition Urges FG To Declare Mahanga A Terrorist Enclave Amid Rising Killings In Plateau

A coalition of Berom groups in the diaspora has called on the Nigerian government to officially designate the Mahanga community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State as a terrorist enclave, alleging that it serves as a base for armed groups responsible for repeated attacks on surrounding villages.

The Berom Diaspora Coalition made the demand during a press conference in Jos, where its convener, Barnabas Dazih, expressed deep concern over what he described as persistent and coordinated violence against Berom communities. He warned that the safety of lives and property in rural areas has significantly deteriorated in recent months.

According to the coalition, more than 500 people have been killed between November 2025 and April 2026 across several local government areas, including Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Jos South, Bokkos, and Bassa. Thousands of residents have also been displaced, while homes and farmlands have been destroyed in repeated attacks.

Dazih painted a grim picture of the situation, describing it as an “unrelenting and systematic onslaught” on innocent civilians. He noted that communities such as Fan, Heipang, Kassa, Jol, Shonong, and Gyel have suffered repeated invasions, leaving behind widespread destruction and loss of life.

The coalition also cited the March 29 Easter attack in Angwan Rukuba, located in Jos, where about 30 people were reportedly killed. Dazih said the attack followed prior threats circulated in viral videos, raising concerns about the failure of security agencies to act on available intelligence.

Beyond the loss of lives, the group highlighted the humanitarian impact of the crisis, revealing that over 70 villages have been displaced. Many residents are unable to return to their ancestral homes, while access to farmlands and mining sites—key sources of livelihood—has been severely restricted.

The coalition criticized the response of security agencies, alleging that attackers often evade justice while local residents who attempt to defend themselves are arrested and labeled as criminals. It cited cases in Bokkos, Bassa, Kanam, and Wase where individuals were reportedly accused of crimes without due process.

Also speaking at the briefing, President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Barrister Solomon Dalyop Mwantiri, described the attackers as both terrorists and land grabbers. He called for justice for affected communities and urged the government to ensure accountability in handling security challenges across the state.

Chairman of the Berom Community Development Associations, Da Silas Bot Pwajok, emphasized the need for communities to defend themselves within constitutional limits. He described the situation as a conspiracy against the people and called for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of lives.

While acknowledging assurances from the Federal Government, the coalition expressed disappointment that such promises have not translated into improved security on the ground. It urged authorities to take decisive action, including reclaiming occupied territories, strengthening intelligence operations, and resettling displaced persons to restore lasting peace in Plateau State.