Enraged women in Bokkos town, Plateau State, set ablaze the residence of Michal Monday Adanchi, the District Head, protesting the alleged victimization and unlawful arrests of community members by the Nigerian Army.
The turmoil unfolded against the backdrop of the council mourning the loss of over 200 residents in Christmas period terrorist attacks.
The unrest erupted when the community discovered two Fulani corpses, leading to the arrest of locals implicated in the attacks and the killing of two Fulani men.
Christopher Luka Tulladem, Youth President in Bokkos Local Government Area, conveyed the protestors’ discontent, detailing their march on the monarch’s residence, the Special Task Force command office, and the local police office.
According to Tulladem’s statement, the Nigerian Army’s response since the discovery of the Fulani corpses on Wednesday included continuous arrests, detentions, and brutalization of victims.
The community expressed concern about the military’s operations seemingly targeting a particular faith, further exacerbated by the failure to prevent the earlier terrorist attacks despite prior intelligence.
“While mourning the death of over 200 people, we condemn the military’s brutal treatment of our innocent youths,” the statement declared, emphasizing the need for the immediate release of detainees and proper medical attention for those injured due to military actions.
The group called on the President, Senate President, National Security Adviser, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Defence Staff, and Chief Justice of the Federation to intervene.
They urged a thorough investigation into alleged human rights abuses by the military, reviewing recent recruitments, and emphasized the necessity of gaining citizens’ confidence in the nation’s security apparatus.
Additionally, the statement demanded the removal of the Divisional Police Officer from Bokkos, citing suspicions of integrity issues and resistance to transfer amid ongoing attacks.
The call for urgent investigation further highlighted concerns about the officer’s alleged interference with transfer orders.
SaharaReporters reached out to the state police command spokesperson, DSP Alabo Alfred, who, during a telephone conversation, declined to comment, citing an ongoing meeting.
The Plateau State Police had earlier announced the arrest of eight suspects connected to the recent massacre, underscoring their commitment to maintaining peace in affected communities.
Amidst the unfolding turmoil, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, disclosed that the Nigerian military had apprehended suspected individuals believed to be responsible for the Christmas Eve massacre.
The situation remains tense as the community awaits responses from authorities and seeks justice for perceived injustices.