Jos, Plateau State -The Concerned Mushere Youth Vanguard (CMYV), a youth group from Plateau State, has urgently appealed to Governor Caleb Mutfwang to fulfill his promise of facilitating the return of displaced people to their ancestral lands. These communities in Bokkos Local Government Area were forced to flee after being attacked by marauding Fulani militias.
At a press briefing in Jos, CMYV chairman John Bitrus spoke on behalf of the displaced indigenes, expressing deep dissatisfaction that months after the governor’s assurance, no concrete actions have been taken to return them home. Meanwhile, the Fulani militias have taken over their homes and farmlands, even renaming several villages.
Bitrus enumerated the villages currently occupied by the invaders, including Hokk, Kaban, Kadim, Nawula, Dulu, Mbor, and Margif, all located within the Mushere Chiefdom. The attacks left many dead and thousands displaced, forcing survivors to live in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps or with relatives in other villages for over four months.
The displaced people are enduring harsh conditions while armed intruders roam freely, grazing cattle on farmlands and maintaining a visible militia presence with weapons. The situation leaves the rightful owners of the land without hope of reclaiming their homes.
The youth group called on the governor, state and local governments, and security agencies to urgently intervene and ensure the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral communities.
"This is a tragic situation where our people’s homes and livelihoods have been seized, and they are left wandering without any certainty about going back. We implore the government and security agencies to act swiftly to restore peace and normalcy," Bitrus lamented.
The plight of the Mushere communities highlights the broader humanitarian crisis in Plateau State, which has experienced numerous violent attacks, displacements, and loss of lives due to ongoing conflicts involving armed herders and militias.
Community leaders and advocacy groups continue to press for sustainable solutions to end the cycle of violence and ensure displaced populations can return safely to rebuild their communities.
The urgent call for action underscores the need for strengthened security measures and humanitarian responses to uphold the rights and dignity of vulnerable populations affected by the conflict in the region.