Riyom, Plateau State – The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, North Central Nigeria, Hon. Abiodun Essiet, PhD, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has visited Dyang Rim Ward in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State to condole with residents over recent losses, assess the prevailing security situation and engage directly with women, youths, community leaders and other stakeholders.
Dr. Essiet was accompanied by the Chairman of Riyom Local Government Area during the visit, which provided an opportunity to obtain first hand information on the challenges confronting communities and strengthen communication between residents and the Federal Government.
During the engagement, community members expressed deep concern over persistent insecurity and the longstanding farmers-herders conflict, which they said has affected the area for more than 26 years.
The Chairman of Riyom LGA described the situation as extremely difficult for residents, citing insecurity, disputes involving farmers and herders, loss of livelihoods and the fear experienced by communities on a daily basis.
Community Raises Concerns Over Land, Livelihoods and Insecurity
Indigenous community members told the delegation that they do not own cattle and expressed concern over the presence of cattle and armed individuals within their communities.
Residents also commended the efforts of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the military, noting that the DSS security camp has contributed significantly to reducing attacks in the community.
Community representatives, however, raised concerns over the alleged presence of armed bandits among herding communities. One representative alleged that bandits were living alongside herders and further claimed, with the agreement of other community members present, that approximately 70 percent of their lands had been taken over by herders and bandits.
The residents said the situation has created a climate of fear and negatively affected farming, movement and other economic activities.
Women Raise Concerns Over Destruction of Crops and Livelihoods
The women of Dyang Rim also appealed for urgent government intervention.
The Women Leader, alongside other women, spoke about the destruction of crops and the impact of cattle movement and insecurity on farming activities and household livelihoods.
The women also raised concerns about restrictions affecting their ability to access and benefit from mining activities, which they said had further compounded the economic difficulties faced by families in the community.
The engagement allowed youths, women and community leaders to openly share their experiences, concerns and expectations with the Federal Government representative.
Dr. Essiet listened to the submissions and acknowledged the concerns raised by residents, emphasizing the importance of sustained engagement with communities affected by insecurity.
She reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to listening directly to citizens and ensuring that concerns from communities across the North Central region are properly communicated through the appropriate channels.
She further emphasized the importance of collaboration among government authorities, traditional and community leaders, women, youths and security agencies in addressing insecurity and longstanding communal challenges in Riyom and neighbouring communities.
The concerns and recommendations presented during the engagement will inform further discussions and appropriate follow-up with relevant authorities.