Protest Erupts in Plateau as Youths, Women Shut Highway Over Fresh Killings

Story: Written by Zara February 23,2026
Angry youths and women in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, on Monday blocked the major highway linking Jos and surrounding councils, protesting the continued killings in their communities.
The demonstration followed a Sunday night attack by gunmen that reportedly claimed at least 10 lives and left several others injured, deepening fear and tension in the area. Protesters barricaded the road and vowed to maintain the blockade until those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
Participants accused authorities of failing to end what they described as recurring violence despite repeated assurances. One protester, who asked not to be named, said the community had endured years of bloodshed with little protection, adding that residents were exhausted by unfulfilled promises.
Confirming the casualties, Rwang Tengwong, spokesperson for the Berom Youth Moulders Association, said seven bodies were recovered on Sunday, while two more were found on Monday in Dorowa Babuje. Another victim, he added, was killed in Jol, Riyom LGA. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, while the deceased were deposited at the mortuary.
According to BusinessDay, the protest disrupted traffic, with motorists from the Shendam and Langtang axis unable to reach Jos, and vehicles from Jos stranded on the highway.
Efforts to get a response from the Plateau State Police Command were unsuccessful as its spokesperson could not be reached at press time.