The Berom Diaspora Coalition (BDC), with the Berom Community Organisation (BECO), Berom Youth Movement (BYM) and Berom Women Development Association (BEWDA), has raised fresh concerns over escalating violence in Plateau State, warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis as killings and displacement continue across affected communities.
At a press conference held in Jos on April 28, 2026, under the theme “Reclaiming Our Lost Ancestral Lands and Resettlement of Our People,” the groups said over 500 people were killed between November 2025 and April 2026.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Barnabas Dazi described the situation as dire, citing widespread attacks, destruction of property and a growing number of displaced families.
“Between November 2025 and now, over 500 people have been killed, many others injured, and homes and farmlands destroyed,” he said. “Our communities are living in fear. What we are witnessing is a continuous pattern of attacks that has left our people vulnerable and displaced.”
According to the coalition, the violence has affected several parts of Plateau State, including Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos South, Bokkos and Bassa, with recent incidents also reported in Jos North.
The group referenced the March 29 attack in Angwan Rukuba, where about 30 people were reportedly killed, describing it as one of several incidents underscoring the persistence of insecurity in the state.
Beyond the rising death toll, the coalition said the attacks have triggered a worsening humanitarian situation, with dozens of communities uprooted and thousands of residents forced from their homes.
“Over 70 Berom villages have been displaced, and many of our people are now homeless in their own land,” Dazi said. “We have widows, orphans and vulnerable families struggling to survive, while those responsible for these attacks continue to operate freely.”
The coalition also expressed concern over the impact on livelihoods, alleging that farmlands have been destroyed and access to economic resources, including mining sites, has been disrupted.
While acknowledging efforts by government and security agencies, the groups questioned the effectiveness of current interventions, noting that earlier assurances to end the violence have yet to yield tangible results.
They further alleged that some community members who attempted to defend themselves during attacks have been arrested, calling for their release and urging authorities to ensure fairness and due process.
The coalition also called for accelerated resettlement of displaced persons, stating that many affected communities have yet to return to their ancestral homes despite previous commitments by government.
In addition, the groups urged stronger and more proactive security measures, including closer collaboration with local communities to address recurring attacks in identified flashpoints.
They also appealed to the international community and human rights organisations to pay closer attention to the situation and support efforts aimed at ending the violence and addressing the humanitarian needs of affected populations.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from security agencies regarding the claims.
