Plateau tensions: calls for fairness as outrage grows over selective reactions to inflammatory statements

By: Zagazola Makama

Growing tensions in Plateau State have sparked debate over fairness, responsibility and accountability, following calls by some groups for the arrest of a local comedian over comments made after recent violence in Barkin Ladi.

The controversy comes in the aftermath of an attack that led to the killing of five youths of Hausa extraction, reportedly during unrest that followed an earlier assault on a community in the area.

In the wake of the incident, several youths across different communities expressed anger and frustration, with some issuing statements that  were inflammatory and capable of escalating tensions.

Among them was the comedian, identified as “Maha,” whose comments have since gone viral on social media, drawing criticism and calls for his arrest.

However, the reactions was a selective outrage, because similar or even more direct statements have been made by other actors without attracting the same level of attention.

According to multiple videos monitored by Zagazola, some youth leaders in the Birom had earlier issued warnings and strong remarks amid rising tensions, including threats of retaliation and declarations suggesting communities could no longer guarantee peace under certain conditions.

One of them was the Birom Youth Leader who declared that they cannot longer guarantee Peace in Plateau state if Fulani continue to come into Plateau state. Another youth openly declare that as from the day a certain attack happened, any Fulani found around the community or elsewhere should be killed. Another youths Leader was heard saying there will no longer be Peace in Plateau state. 

There are also statements attributed to community leaders and other influential figures, like Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo who openly told the youths to go for War which many believed contributed to an already volatile atmosphere instead of helping to restore normalcy.  

All these statements often emerge in emotionally charged situations, but they can have serious consequences if not carefully managed.

In conflict environments, words matter. Emotional reactions are understandable, but when they cross into threats, they can fuel cycles of violence. So enforcement of equal actions must be consistent to maintain public trust.

Accountability should not be selective. If the law is to be applied, it must be applied fairly across board, regardless of who is involved. Maha was also reacting to the killing of his people and said the Birom will hear from them. A Birom youth leader equally made the same statement saying the Fulani will hear from them. Both of them have made these statements while attack continue on both sides. 

Government  have called for restraint, urging leaders, influencers and youths to avoid statements that could inflame passions or lead to reprisals.

Others have emphasised the need for security agencies to focus on addressing the root causes of the violence, including identifying and prosecuting those directly responsible for attacks.