Plateau Killings: Police Transfer Community Heads, Fulani Leaders to Abuja for Interrogation

Community heads and Fulani leaders from Bokkos, Mangu, Barkin Ladi and Riyom local government areas (LGAs) of Plateau State where killings have been prevalent in recent times were yesterday arrested by the Plateau State Police Command and whisked away to Abuja for interrogation.

The state Governor, Hon. Simon Lalong had earlier handed over community heads and Fulani leaders in Bokkos where the recent killings occurred to the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Isaac Akinmoyede for questioning.

It was not clear if their confession was what led to an expanded arrest of more community leaders from neighbouring LGAs.

But the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Ubah Gabriel confirmed the development, adding that “for every Ardo (Fulani leader) that was moved to Abuja, an equivalent community leader from the area was equally picked and taken to Abuja for same interrogation.”

Meanwhile, no fewer than 1,000 displaced persons from Sunday herdsmen attacks in Bokkos are currently stranded in open-plan non-residential buildings provided by churches in Bokkos town.

Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Bokkos has the highest number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the attack in Kwatas, Ruboi, and Marish villages.

A resident of Bokkos, Rev. Philemon Mayat said “from available records so far, there are over one thousand women and children currently stranded without much attention from government.

He said that the Church has been the one providing food and mats for some of the IDPs, but not much is available to go round.

He said about 31 women and 20 are at Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Bokkos.

The Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area, Mr. Yusuf Machen advised the displaced to go back to their homes. He said if they leave their homes vacant, the invaders will take them over.