Outrage in Plateau: Women Protest Killings, Pull Down Military Checkpoint in Barkin Ladi
Tension escalated on Monday in Gashish community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, as a group of women staged a protest over recurring killings and rising insecurity, pulling down a military checkpoint in the process.
The protesters, mostly dressed in black, marched through the community chanting mournful songs and demanding urgent government action. Many carried tree branches and placards, accusing security agencies of failing to protect residents despite the presence of troops in the area.
Eyewitnesses said the demonstration intensified when the women converged on a military checkpoint situated along a key access road into the community. In a show of frustration, they dismantled parts of the structure, insisting it had not prevented repeated attacks on their villages.
“We are tired of burying our husbands and children,” one protester said. “The soldiers are here, yet our people keep getting killed. What is the checkpoint doing for us?”
Residents linked the protest to recent attacks in nearby communities, which reportedly left several people dead and others displaced. The women alleged that attackers often strike at night and flee before security forces can respond.
Community leaders have appealed for calm, cautioning that the destruction of security infrastructure could further expose the area to risk, even as they acknowledged the growing anger among residents.
“The people are frustrated because they feel unprotected,” a youth leader said. “Each attack leads to loss of lives and abandoned livelihoods, yet the situation remains unchanged.”
Security sources confirmed the incident, noting that no casualties were recorded during the protest. Efforts are currently underway to restore normalcy and engage with community stakeholders.
Barkin Ladi Local Government Area has experienced repeated outbreaks of violence in recent years, with residents consistently calling for stronger security measures and improved intelligence to curb the attacks.
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