“‘Where Is Protection?’ Plateau Community Erupts, Burns Checkpoint After Villager’s Killing”
By Passman Akpos
Fresh unrest has erupted in Plateau State following a late-night protest that saw angry youths and women set a military checkpoint ablaze in Kassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Sunday night, shortly after the burial of a local resident, Gyang Nuhu Choji, who was reportedly killed on April 16 by suspected armed attackers.
According to security sources, tensions reached a breaking point at about 11:40 p.m. when a large crowd stormed the military position at Rapung Kassa, overwhelming soldiers and destroying structures and operational equipment at the checkpoint.
Eyewitnesses said the protesters—mostly youths and women—accused security operatives of failing to protect the community from repeated attacks. Many residents expressed frustration that despite the presence of troops, killings have continued unabated in the area.
“The soldiers are here, but our people are still being killed,” one resident reportedly said, reflecting widespread anger among community members.
The protest quickly escalated into violence, leading to the burning of the checkpoint and a temporary disruption of security operations in the area.
However, sources confirmed that no lives were lost during the confrontation. Community leaders later intervened, helping to de-escalate tensions and restore calm.
Security has since been reinforced across the area, although authorities are yet to release an official statement on the incident.
The development highlights growing frustration in parts of Plateau, where communities have faced persistent attacks blamed on armed groups, raising concerns about the effectiveness of ongoing security deployments.
