OPC Urges Plateau State to Protect Non-Indigenes Amid Insecurity

TL;DR: The Oodua People’s Congress demands that Plateau State authorities protect non‑indigenous residents, especially Yoruba farmers, from ongoing attacks. It cites constitutional guarantees of equal protection and a recent assault where a young farmer lost his hand.

Context: The Oodua People’s Congress, Reformed, issued a statement urging government at all levels to end selective insecurity. Leader Ambassador Dare Adesope said the constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to live, work, and own property anywhere in the country. He stressed that security must not discriminate based on ethnicity.

Additional Context: The group noted that Yoruba residents have long contributed to trade and agriculture in Plateau State, helping to boost local markets. Their displacement would not only violate rights but also undermine state revenue. The OPC urged that protecting these contributors is essential for sustained economic growth.

Key Facts: First, the group quoted the principle that all Nigerians deserve equal protection under the law regardless of ethnic background. Second, Plateau State faces persistent insecurity, with recurring attacks harming many families, including members of the Yoruba community who have lived peacefully and contributed to the state’s development. Third, security monitors recorded more than 120 violent incidents in Plateau State during the last twelve months. Fourth, a recent attack left a young farmer with his hand severed by a cutlass; the assailants were identified as known Fulani herdsmen in Matale Village, Imeko‑Afon LGA, Ogun State. Fifth, many of these incidents targeted farming communities, destroying crops and livestock.

What It Means: The OPC’s call highlights a gap between constitutional rights and on‑the‑ground safety for non‑indigenes in Plateau State. If authorities heed the demand, increased patrols and community‑based early warning systems could reduce violence. Observers will watch whether the Plateau State government launches a concrete protection plan and whether federal agencies intervene to curb herdsmen‑related attacks. Continued dialogue between community leaders and security forces may shape the next phase of peace efforts.