Concern Grows Over Sexual Harassment in Plateau Communities

The Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) on Thursday raised concern about the rising cases of sexual harassment against women in rural areas of Plateau State.

In a statement signed by their spokesperson, Rwang Tengwong, the group revealed that women returning from farms in Ganawuri District and nearby communities have reported harassment incidents.

They warned that ongoing insecurity is making female farmers and residents vulnerable to abuse during their daily routines.

Mr Tengwong mentioned that fear has become a regular part of life for many people in these areas.

BYM connected the reported harassment to ongoing attacks in Riyom and Barkin Ladi local government areas. They noted that destruction of farmlands and cattle rustling has worsened the situation for rural residents.

The association highlighted these worries as violence in the area has renewed recently.

They also condemned the killing of a 52-year-old farmer, Joshua Bulus. He was ambushed by gunmen in Dyan community of Rim District, Riyom LGA. Residents said the incident happened late at night, increasing fear among the community members.

BYM claimed that about five hectares of cabbage and carrot farms, ready for harvest, were destroyed overnight in Gassa community of Ropp District, Barkin Ladi LGA. This has added to the economic losses for the affected families.

According to the group, these latest incidents happened just days after a deadly attack in Gwom-Ajang village of Foron District, Barkin Ladi LGA, where many people were killed and others injured. They described this as a pattern of ongoing violence.

The association called on security agencies and governments at all levels to stop just making statements and take real actions. They urged them to protect women and other vulnerable people, ensure justice for victims, and help restore safety in these communities.