Cleric Alleges Systematic Land Seizure by Terrorists in Plateau State

Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) for the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, has issued a public appeal regarding the loss of his ancestral property. In a series of statements posted to his social media channels on Saturday, the cleric alleged that his family’s inherited farmlands have been seized and partitioned by terrorists and armed groups.

The Allegations of Land Annexation

According to the Daily Post Nigeria, Rev. Dachomo described the situation as a profound loss that extends beyond physical property. He characterized the land as a repository of family history, sacrifice, and generational memory. The cleric stated that the individuals responsible for the seizure have divided the plots among themselves, effectively displacing the rightful owners.

In his statement, Rev. Dachomo expressed deep concern regarding the future of his children, questioning what legacy he can provide if the family’s foundational assets are stripped away through intimidation and violence. He emphasized that the loss of these lands threatens the ability of future generations to maintain a connection to their heritage.

Broader Context of Regional Insecurity

Rev. Dachomo’s account highlights the ongoing security challenges in Plateau State. The cleric noted that his experience is not isolated, citing his history of officiating at mass burials and witnessing the impact of violence on his congregation. He described a cycle of loss that includes the destruction of homes, the burning of churches, and the displacement of families.

“If they take our people, we mourn. If they burn our churches, we pray. If they destroy our homes, we cry and try to rebuild. If they seize our farms, where shall we go?” the cleric wrote in his public address.

The cleric’s testimony underscores the economic and psychological toll of the conflict, as agriculture remains the primary livelihood for many in the region. The loss of farmland, therefore, represents a direct threat to the sustainability of local families.

Calls for Intervention

In his appeal, Rev. Dachomo called upon the Nigerian government, international organizations, and human rights advocates to intervene. He stated that his objective is not to acquire the property of others, but to secure the protection of his family’s rightful inheritance and to ensure the safety of his community.

As of the time of reporting, specific details regarding the exact location of the seized plots or the identities of the groups involved have not been independently verified. The cleric’s statement serves as a plea for justice and the restoration of the freedom to live and farm without the threat of violence. The situation remains a point of concern for those observing the security landscape in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

Conclusion

The allegations made by Rev. Dachomo bring renewed attention to the intersection of land rights and security in Nigeria. By speaking out, the cleric has drawn a link between the physical displacement of people and the erosion of cultural and ancestral legacies, urging authorities to address the underlying causes of the violence that continues to affect the region.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Daily Post Nigeria

Tags: Human Rights · Insecurity · Land Rights · news · Nigeria · Plateau State · ViralBrief