Plateau Bloodshed Sparks Global Outcry as Diaspora Group Demands Swift Justice, Security Overhaul

By Correspondent in Abuja

The recent wave of killings in Plateau State has drawn strong international concern, as a prominent diaspora organisation, the Plateau State Association USA, Inc. (PSA-USA), has called for urgent and decisive action to halt the violence and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s security system.

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, PSA-USA condemned the attacks in the strongest terms, describing the recurring bloodshed as both unacceptable and deeply troubling.

Speaking on behalf of the association, its National President, Dr. Barth Shepkong, stressed that the continued loss of innocent lives reflects a failure to effectively anticipate and neutralise threats before they escalate.

“The continued loss of innocent lives under recurring circumstances underscores the urgent need for more proactive, coordinated, and effective security measures,” he said.

The group directed its appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government, urging them to act swiftly and decisively to address what it described as a deteriorating security situation in Plateau State.

According to PSA-USA, safeguarding the lives and property of citizens remains the foremost responsibility of government, adding that any delay in responding to the crisis risks further emboldening perpetrators and deepening public distrust.

Highlighting the pattern of repeated attacks, the association emphasised the importance of early intervention, noting that warning signs must not be ignored.

“Where early warning signs exist, they must be matched with early and effective action,” the group stated, underscoring the need for intelligence-driven responses to prevent further tragedies.

In a broader call for reform, PSA-USA advocated a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, including the establishment of state police.

The group argued that the current centralised system is increasingly inadequate in addressing localised and evolving security threats.

“The current security structure is no longer sufficient. Strengthening Nigeria’s security framework, including state policing, is essential to ensuring timely and effective responses,” the statement added.

Beyond preventive measures, the association insists on accountability, calling for the immediate identification, arrest, and prosecution of those responsible for the killings.

It maintained that justice is critical to breaking the cycle of violence and deterring future attacks.

“Those responsible for these attacks must be brought to justice without delay. Accountability is essential,” the group stressed.

PSA-USA also called on key stakeholders within Plateau State,including religious leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, lawmakers, and members of the National Assembly,to rise to the occasion and demonstrate leadership in protecting their communities.

Describing the situation as a defining moment, the group urged collective action to restore peace and rebuild public trust in governance and security institutions.

“This is a moment for leadership. All stakeholders must act decisively to protect lives and restore public confidence in the system,” it said.

The association warned that continued inaction or delayed responses could further erode public trust and leave communities increasingly vulnerable to violence.

As a diaspora organisation with strong ties to Plateau communities, PSA-USA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating sustainable security solutions and accountable governance.

It expressed solidarity with the state government and the people affected by the crisis, particularly victims in impacted communities.

“The protection of human life is the first duty of government,and it must not fail,” the statement concluded.

PSA-USA, a non-profit, non-political, and non-religious body, brings together indigenes of Plateau State in the United States, supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and socio-economic development for underserved communities both at home and abroad.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.