…to unearth root cause(s) of attacks on Riyom communities.
by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Youths Council (PYC), Riyom Branch, has called for sincere and inclusive dialogue initiatives that will involve all stakeholders, aimed at addressing the root causes of attacks on Riyom communities – for lasting peace.
Briefing journalists, Tuesday, at the NUJ Press Center, Jos, Comrade Zang Kefas Davou, who is PYC Chairman for Riyom Branch, noted that “Such dialogue must be predicated on justice, truth and respect for the rights and dignity of all communities.”
He appealed to the Local and International Community for their firm attention, advocacy, and intervention, adding that, “The silence of the world on the systematic annihilation of communities in Riyom Local Government is seriously deafening.
“We urge global human rights bodies, governments, and media organizations to investigate, report, and pressure the Nigerian Governments at all levels to uphold its constitutional duties and protect its citizens in Riyom Local Government,” Comrade Davou stated.
According to him, “The youths of Riyom are resilient, but our resilience is being tested to its limits. We are tired of burying our loved ones whose lives are cut short by armed Fulani militias.
“We are tired of seeing our heritage destroyed and annihilated. We are tired of living in fear. We believe in the promise of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, and that peace must begin in our homes, our communities, and our local government areas,” he stated.
“We stand here, today, as a voice for the voiceless, a plea for justice, and a demand for peace. We will not be silent until our people can live without fear, on their own land, and pursue their livelihoods in dignity.”
Comrade Davou disclosed that, “Within the short period, 58 innocent people were brutally murdered in cold blood. This includes mothers, fathers, children, and youths, while 31 people sustained several injuries and are currently battling for their lives, while about 82 houses and properties worth millions of naira were deliberately burnt and destroyed.”