Plateau attacks: BYM passes vote of no confidence in OPEP Sector Commander
Berom Youth Moulders Association Issues Vote of No Confidence in Security Leadership Amid Rising Attacks in Barkin Ladi
BARKIN LADI, Plateau State — The Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) has passed a vote of no confidence in the leadership of the Special Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), in Sector 4. This decision targets Col. Victor Asuquo and Operations Officer Captain Bello, following a series of violent attacks in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
In a statement released Saturday, Rwang Tengwong, BYM’s National Publicity Secretary, on behalf of National President Barr. Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in Barkin Ladi. The association criticized the OPEP troops for their perceived incompetence and lack of urgency in responding to the escalating violence.
BYM highlighted that between April 1 and May 9, 2026, at least 34 individuals were killed in multiple attacks, while over 70 hectares of farmland were reportedly destroyed by armed militias, exacerbating the humanitarian and economic challenges facing residents.
Despite the presence of security personnel and established checkpoints, the association reported ongoing attacks that leave communities vulnerable. They noted that armed groups continue to move freely, terrorizing local populations without apparent interruption.
The association underscored the tragic killing of Mr. Gyang Kim Choji, who had provided accommodations for STF personnel at his home. He was reportedly murdered by suspected Fulani militias near a checkpoint positioned outside his residence. A video circulated on social media, showing the Guard Commander at the checkpoint dismissively addressing allegations of responsibility for the attack, further fueling community outrage.
BYM accused the Guard Commander of unprofessional conduct and asserted that residents had previously raised concerns about threats and intimidation associated with his behavior, yet no action had been taken. Protests by local women, demanding the officer’s removal, culminated in the dismantling of the checkpoint on the day of Kim Choji’s funeral.
Additionally, BYM referred to a troubling statement attributed to Col. Asuquo, suggesting potential repercussions for the community in light of their dissatisfaction with military presence. This remark has raised apprehensions among residents, particularly as security conditions continue to decline without meaningful intervention.
Recent incidents reported include a violent attack in Sabon Layi, where armed individuals fired upon residents, resulting in at least one death and injuries to others. Ongoing assaults in various neighborhoods, including Rakung and Gangare, have heightened fears among the populace as security forces appear ineffective in curtailing the violence.
The statement from BYM insists that the ongoing killings and property destruction underscore a failure of leadership within Sector 4 of OPEP to protect lives and maintain order.
Mwantiri concluded by calling for the immediate redeployment of Col. Asuquo and Captain Bello, stating that confidence in their ability to secure the area has eroded. “The lives of the people of Barkin Ladi matter,” he said, stressing the urgent need for effective security measures to prevent further tragedies.
