Plateau Killings: US-based group demands arrest, prosecution of perpetrators

A diaspora group under the auspices of the Plateau State Association USA, Inc. (PSA-USA) has strongly condemned the recent killings in Plateau State, describing the violence as unacceptable and a grave concern requiring immediate and coordinated action for the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.

The National President of PSA-USA, Dr. Barth Shepkong, said this in a statement issued on Friday and made available in Abuja.

He stated that the recurring nature of these attacks highlights serious gaps in prevention, response, and overall security coordination.

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

PSA-USA specifically called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government to take immediate and decisive steps to address the deteriorating security situation in Plateau State.

It said: “The protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of government. 

“We urge the President and the Federal Government to act with urgency and resolve to safeguard the lives of citizens in Plateau State.”

The association emphasised that repeated incidents of violence, especially where warning signs are evident, must be met with swift and effective intervention.

“Where early warning signs exist, they must be matched with early and effective action,” the group said. 

PSA-USA reiterated its call for comprehensive security reform, including the establishment of state police as a critical component of a more responsive and effective security framework.

It said: “The current security structure is no longer sufficient to address localised and evolving threats. 

“Strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, including state policing, is essential.”

The association further stressed that those responsible for these acts of violence must be held accountable, adding: 

“Those responsible for these attacks must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without delay. 

“Accountability is essential to breaking this cycle of violence.”

PSA-USA also called on critical stakeholders in Plateau State, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, state lawmakers, and members of the National Assembly, to act with urgency and take collective responsibility for protecting the lives and property of the people they represent.

It said: “This is a moment for leadership. 

“All stakeholders must act decisively to protect lives and restore public confidence in the system.”

The association warned that sustained inaction or delayed responses risk undermining public trust and further endangering communities.

It said: “Sustained and coordinated action is critical to restoring public trust and ensuring lasting stability.”

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

It said: “PSA-USA stands in solidarity with the Governor and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, particularly those directly impacted in the affected communities, and reiterates the urgent need for immediate and sustained efforts to prevent further loss of life.

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

The PSA-USA is a non-profit, non-political, and non-religious organisation that unites Plateau State indigenes in the United States to support education, healthcare, and socio-economic development initiatives for underserved communities in the state and in the US.