The National President of the Plateau State Association USA Inc. (PSA-USA), Dr. Barth Shepkong, has raised alarm over the escalating violence in Plateau State and the Middle Belt, warning that the region is “under siege” and abandoned by its elected representatives.
In a strongly worded statement, Dr. Shepkong said Nigeria is at a defining moment where the government’s moral responsibility is being tested by the need to protect innocent lives.
He lamented the continuous attacks that have devastated communities in Jos, Mangu, Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Kanam, and Riyom, noting that entire settlements are being wiped out while families are displaced.
Dr. Shepkong questioned what he described as the “disturbing silence” of Plateau lawmakers in Abuja despite the unrelenting killings across the state.
“Their silence is not just disappointing — it is dangerous and unacceptable,” he said.
He condemned what he called the “deadly politicization of insecurity,” stating that the use of vague labels such as “unknown gunmen” and “communal clashes” only serves to distort the truth and shield perpetrators.
“These phrases sanitize horror, obscure responsibility, and betray the memory of the dead,” the PSA-USA president declared.
Dr. Shepkong criticized Plateau’s representatives for failing to raise motions, issue public statements, or demand emergency protection for vulnerable communities.
He warned that silence in the face of a moral crisis amounts to complicity and represents a failure of leadership.
According to him, Plateau needs leaders who will “rise with courage, not caution,” and who will speak boldly about the atrocities affecting their constituents.
He stressed that the survival of Plateau communities must be placed above political interests, party loyalty, or fear of backlash.
Dr. Shepkong called on Nigerian leaders to end the politicization of insecurity and respond with truth, accountability, and moral clarity.
He urged Plateau sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, to continue demanding justice and protection for affected communities.
“The blood of Plateau people is not cheap and will not be ignored,” he said, insisting that Nigeria must embrace leaders who prioritize human dignity over political convenience.
Dr. Shepkong added that this is the kind of leadership Plateau, the Middle Belt, and the entire country urgently need.
