The President of the Plateau State Association USA (PSA-USA), Dr. Barth Shepkong, has issued a forceful appeal to federal lawmakers representing Plateau State, urging them to speak out and take decisive action as violent attacks continue to ravage communities across the state and the wider Middle Belt region.
In a statement titled “Plateau Is Under Siege: We Demand That Our Lawmakers in Abuja Stand Up and Fight for Us,” Dr. Shepkong warned that Nigeria is at a critical turning point, with escalating insecurity challenging the nation’s moral conscience and political will. He described the sustained attacks in Mangu, Bokkos, Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Kanam, and other communities as a deepening humanitarian crisis requiring urgent national attention.
Dr. Shepkong condemned what he called the “deadly politicization of insecurity,” criticising the frequent use of terms such as “unknown gunmen,” “communal clashes,” or “miscreants” to describe the violence. Such language, he said, distorts reality, minimizes victims’ suffering, and shields perpetrators from scrutiny.
“Every euphemism is a betrayal of the dead,” he said, insisting that silence from political leaders only emboldens those behind the attacks.
Expressing deep frustration, the PSA-USA president criticised Plateau’s federal lawmakers for what he described as “unacceptable silence,” arguing that the people did not elect representatives to “warm seats” in Abuja. He noted the absence of strong public statements, legislative motions, and calls for emergency security intervention.
“Silence in a moment of moral crisis is not neutrality — it is failure,” he said, describing such inaction as a betrayal of public trust.
Dr. Shepkong emphasised that Plateau communities are traumatised, exhausted, and increasingly feel abandoned as the violence persists. He urged lawmakers to rise above political caution and demonstrate moral courage, noting that the protection of human life must outweigh political ambition or party loyalty.
He further called for renewed commitment to truth, justice, and accountability, urging leaders at all levels to confront the insecurity with honesty and resolve while challenging false or misleading narratives.
“As Plateau sons and daughters — at home and in the diaspora — our call is clear: end the politicization of insecurity, speak boldly with moral clarity, and demand protection for our people,” he stated.
Dr. Shepkong concluded by stressing that Nigeria’s peace and long-term stability depend on leaders who are willing to defend vulnerable communities without hesitation.
“This is the leadership Plateau deserves. This is the leadership the Middle Belt needs. And this is the leadership Nigeria must demand — now.”
