A group known as the Berom Young Warriors has issued a warning to the United Plateau Muslims, stating that they will be held responsible if any harm comes to Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, a clergyman who has been vocal about alleged Christian genocide in Plateau State. The warning comes after the United Plateau Muslims accused Reverend Dachomo of inciting sentiments against Muslims and Fulanis in the state.
The United Plateau Muslims had released a statement claiming that Reverend Dachomo was advancing a narrative designed to demonize Muslims in the state, allegedly to attract grants from international donors and fuel Christian animosity towards Muslims. They also alleged that Reverend Dachomo deliberately attributes every act of violence in Plateau to Muslims and Fulani militias, while downplaying attacks carried out by Christian militias.
In response, the Berom Young Warriors accused the Muslim group of spreading falsehoods to justify potential attacks on unsuspecting communities in the state. They claimed that the United Plateau Muslims were executing a script designed by their sponsors to target Reverend Dachomo. The Berom Young Warriors stated that 95% of attacks in the state, especially in Berom communities, are carried out by Fulani militias, and that accusing Reverend Dachomo of whipping up sentiments is taking their silence for granted.
The Berom Young Warriors warned that they will not remain docile while their lands are plundered, their people are killed, and their women are raped. They stated that they have the means and willpower to match their opponents “fire for fire” and warned that if anything happens to Reverend Dachomo, they will take action. The group emphasized that they are from a lineage of proud warriors and will not be intimidated.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between different ethnic and religious groups in Plateau State, where clashes have resulted in significant loss of life and property. The warning by the Berom Young Warriors has raised concerns about potential escalation of violence in the region. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the parties involved will respond to the warning and whether efforts will be made to address the underlying issues driving the tensions.