Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo has alleged that armed groups operating in Plateau State are imposing compulsory levies on residents as part of efforts to finance planned attacks against Christian communities during the Christmas period.
Speaking at an interdenominational gathering in Abuja, the cleric claimed that women are reportedly being forced to pay ₦100,000 and men ₦200,000, allegedly to support the procurement of weapons. He stated that intelligence reaching community leaders suggests that the groups intend to launch coordinated assaults on several settlements.
Dachomo described the situation as an escalating human-rights crisis, warning that the threats are contributing to heightened fear among rural populations. He urged federal and state authorities to adopt urgent, lawful measures to protect communities and prevent the breakdown of security guarantees provided under the Nigerian Constitution.
“Communities are living under severe threats. These groups have declared that residents will not experience a peaceful Christmas unless their demands are met,” he said.
“We need protection, and we need prayers. Our constitutional right to life must not be negotiated.”
The cleric emphasized non-violent responses, urging citizens to rely on spiritual support while calling for stronger state action. He described the current climate as one that requires both immediate security attention and long-term policy intervention to address the root causes of attacks, displacement, and intimidation.
Human-rights observers note that the allegations, if verified, raise serious questions about extortion, targeted violence, and the responsibility of security agencies under Sections 14 and 33 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee public safety and the right to life.
Legal analysts say the matter highlights persistent concerns about: the capacity of security institutions to prevent attacks on vulnerable groups,
the legal implications of forced levies imposed by non-state actors, and the state’s duty to protect citizens from persecution on religious grounds.
Stakeholders have urged the government to investigate the allegations, strengthen early-warning systems, and ensure that residents of Plateau communities can observe the Christmas season without fear
