Communities in Plateau State’s Riyom Local Government Area are reeling from a wave of deadly violence that has claimed the lives of 58 residents and left over 82 homes in ruins in recent weeks.
At a press conference on Tuesday in Jos, Chairman of the Plateau Youth Council (Riyom branch), Zang Davou, described the escalating attacks as a humanitarian crisis. He reported that thousands have been displaced, dozens injured, and entire villages devastated.
“Since 2002, Riyom has faced unrelenting violence from armed Fulani militias. This recent escalation is more coordinated and destructive than anything we’ve seen,” Davou stated. “In just a few weeks, 58 innocent people—men, women, children—have been murdered in cold blood. Some of the attackers are still answering calls on the victims’ phones.”
Davou added that 31 people are currently hospitalised with severe injuries and limited access to medical care. In addition to the fatalities and injuries, farmlands—central to the local economy—have been destroyed, worsening food insecurity and deepening the crisis.
He reported that more than 15,000 residents have been displaced and are living in dire conditions without adequate shelter, food, or support.
While acknowledging efforts by security agencies and government authorities, Davou stressed that current responses are falling short. “The scale of this tragedy demands urgent, comprehensive action. The government must live up to its constitutional duty to protect lives and property.”
“The people of Riyom are resilient, but our endurance is being pushed to the brink,” he said. “We are tired of burying our loved ones. We want to live in peace, preserve our heritage, and build a future free from fear.”
