Residents of Kassa in Plateau State have staged a heated protest following renewed deadly attacks, expressing anger at the continued presence of troops despite persistent violence in their communities.
The demonstration, largely led by women and youths, reportedly saw the destruction of a military checkpoint on April 21.
The protest came a day after suspected armed herders attacked the area, killing at least six people.
The unrest followed the burial of one of the victims and reflects growing frustration among locals, who say attacks have continued unabated in nearby Barkin Ladi and Riyom despite heavy security deployment.
Protesters are calling for the withdrawal of military personnel, arguing that their presence has not translated into protection.
They also demanded the release of local youths allegedly arrested for defending their communities during previous attacks.
The crisis is part of a long-running conflict in Plateau State, often framed as clashes between farming communities, largely Christians, and nomadic herders.
The violence has intensified in 2026, with dozens killed and thousands displaced, further eroding trust between civilians and security forces.
The situation has sparked an intense debate online, with sharply divided opinions on both the role of the military and the actions of the protesters.
Some, like @Abba_Ndos, warned about the dangers of confronting armed soldiers, noting that any escalation could have led to deadly consequences.
He argued that troops are often placed in difficult situations, trying to prevent violence while facing hostility from the very communities they are deployed to protect.
“When we warn people that some elements in Plateau State are extremely violent, many refuse to agree with us. Now imagine the scene: a mob came dangerously close to soldiers, behaving as if they wanted to attack or disarm them.
“If the soldiers had opened fire in self-defence, the same people would have flooded the media with cries of ‘massacre’ and ‘brutality,’ completely forgetting that soldiers are human beings with lives too.
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“Do you think the soldiers are happy with the situation in the country? They are simply doing their duty by preventing these groups from launching deadly attacks and then turning around to label it “Christian genocide.” That is exactly why they are crying foul now.”
Others, including @emmylove139, expressed deep distrust in the system, alleging that security forces are aware of the threats but remain silent due to institutional loyalty.
“The Nigerian military knows what is happening in Nigeria, but in the military, loyalty first. They know the plans of Fulani terrorists in Nigeria, but they chose to be silent over it until they leave office, then they will come out and start telling the truth.”
A more radical stance came from @officialOsas_Edob, who called for civilians to be allowed to arm themselves for self-defense, reflecting growing desperation among affected populations.
“It is better to die knowing that no one is protecting you than to die while those who are supposed to protect you are merely pretending to do so.
“Let the federal government allow us to purchase firearms of our choice so we can defend ourselves.”
Similarly, @Hhonor captured the mood of many protesters, stating that communities are no longer willing to rely on appeals or official channels, demanding either effective protection or freedom to defend themselves.
“After years of attacks, the Plateau people marched to the army. No more petitions, no more meetings. Protect us or get out of our way. If you won’t stop the bloodshed, at least stop blocking us from stopping it.”
Despite the protest, calm was reportedly restored after discussions between community leaders and security officials.
No casualties were recorded during the protest.
