Youth groups and residents in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State took to the streets and blocked a major highway leading to Jos in protest over a series of deadly attacks by suspected gunmen that have reignited fear and anger in the region.
The demonstrations followed a spate of violent incidents in rural communities over the weekend. Armed attackers struck the Dorowa Babuje area on Sunday night, killing at least seven people, injuring others and prompting residents to recover more bodies the next morning. Two more people were reportedly killed in Jol village in Riyom Local Government Area, and four traders were ambushed and killed while travelling from Gangare in Jos to Pankshin.
Fed up with repeated violence and what they describe as inadequate protection, youths, women and other protesters barricaded the Jos–Shendam highway on Monday, demanding that security forces arrest and punish those responsible. One demonstrator said communities have suffered “for too long in the hands of attackers” and accused authorities of failing to act decisively against armed groups.
The protest caused disruption for travellers and motorists as those moving to and from Jos were forced to stop. Despite appeals, several protesters vowed to remain until they are assured that tangible action will be taken, reflecting deep frustration with ongoing insecurity in the area.
Security operatives and local leaders later intervened to calm tensions, and normal movement resumed. However, the protests underline the heightened anxiety and impatience among residents who continue to face deadly attacks without what they consider adequate protection.
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