By Israel Adamu, Jos
A pressure group operating under the ageis of Bokkos concerned Youths on Tuesday alleged that over 10 communities have been totally sacked and occupied by bandits in Bokkos local government council of Plateau state.
He also added that so far over 61 communities have suffered violent attacks leaving several persons displaced in the local government council of Plateau state.
Addressing newsmen in Jos,Mr Dapet Chris Otega, the spokesman of the group said for many years till now, our innocent people have been subjected to senseless killings, displacements, kidnapping of our people by bandits suspected to be fulani militias.
He gave the names of communities annexed by bandits as Hokk, Nawula, Pangkap, Luwapan, Fokoldep, Dangru, Bodel, Duun, Dulu and other few communities.
In his words “The frequency and severity of the attacks have left us scared and our communities gripped with anxiety and uncertainty. “
“With our naked eyes, we have seen innocent families of ten, nine and more been completely wiped away, leaving thousands of lives lost and properties worth billions destroyed by the activities of this bandits. “
The group added that the attacks are premeditated and targeted with the fulani terriorist seeking to intimidate, displaced or even annihilate the farming communities.
” We understand the military’s operational structure and the rules of engagement, we appreciate the dedication of sincere , genuine and honest personnel who have worked tirelessly to handle the challenges that threatens our communities. “
” We cannot ignore the actions of corrupt personnel within the military in some communities within Bokkos local government as ever since there attacks occurred , no single arrest has been made..
They alleged further that some of this military have chosen to aid the armed bandits, stressing that such betrayal of trust and duty are apprehensable and will not go unpublished.
They appealed to the Federal government and security operatives to go after their attackers .
We call on government to empower communities with tools, skills and resources needed to rebuild and recover from this attacks
They also urged government to engage with local leaders, civil society, organizations and traditional leaders to identify and address terrorist activities.
We urge the government to invest in economic development, education and social services in vulnerable communities, this investments can help to address the underlying drivers of poverty, inequality and exclusion thsh can contribute radicalization and insecurity.
