RismadarVoice Reporters, May 6, 2026
A Jos-based Christian commentator, Gyang Joseph Mancha, has strongly criticised the use of roadblocks and identity-based killings during protests in Plateau State, describing such actions as “terrorism” that mirrors the violence communities claim to resist.
In a video message circulated online, Mancha said targeting individuals based on ethnicity or religion during demonstrations amounts to acts of terror, warning that retaliation only deepens cycles of violence.
“Blocking federal highways and picking people based on their identity to kill them simply because you are angry is terrorism,” he said. “There is no difference between that and what you claim to be fighting.”
His comments come amid renewed tensions in Plateau State, where recurring attacks and reprisals have led to road blockades and the killing of travellers.
Mancha urged communities to reject vigilantism and embrace lawful, transparent approaches to security. He argued that self-defence efforts should involve recognised authorities rather than informal armed actions.
“If people want to defend their communities, it should be officially known by community leaders and the government,” he said. “Not secretly keeping weapons, blocking roads and killing innocent people.”
He also dismissed any justification rooted in religion, stressing that violence remains wrong regardless of whether perpetrators are Christian or Muslim.
“If it is wrong, it is wrong no matter who does it,” Mancha stated, calling on religious groups to hold their members accountable rather than shielding them.
Appealing for empathy, he highlighted the plight of innocent travellers caught in reprisal attacks, noting that many victims have no connection to the conflicts that lead to such violence.
His remarks follow recent incidents in Mangu and other parts of Plateau, where reports indicate that armed groups blocked highways and targeted commuters based on identity during retaliatory attacks.
