By Dosu Deborah Oluwatimilehin(SIWES student, Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic EruwaMangu LGA in Plateau State faced turmoil on January 23.
Youth protests against alleged herdsmen killings turned violent, resulting in arson and property damage. Claiming unaddressed attacks and under-development, protesters clashed with security forces.
Governor Caleb Muftwang declared an immediate 24-hour curfew to quell the unrest, emphasizing its necessity for restoring peace.
Reports indicate a counter-attack by hoodlums, escalating violence and causing residents to flee. A source cites ongoing insecurity and economic challenges, with 25 recent fatalities, attributing the attacks to a lack of security and opportunities.
A community leader revealed ambushes on locals, hindering farming activities, and occupation of deserted areas by marauders. The resulting displacement led to hardship and destruction.
The Plateau State Government, consulting with security agencies, imposed the curfew, restricting movement to essential duties.
The government pledged relief efforts and a task force to address the crisis, emphasizing commitment to lasting peace. The Plateau State Police Command was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.