Court Sentences Farmer to Death for Killing Herder

A Plateau-based cleric and regional leader of the Church of Christ in Nations, Evangelist Ezekiel Dachom, has voiced strong criticism against the government’s handling of the persistent killings in Plateau communities. He alleges a pattern of denial and inaction that empowers the attackers, believed to be Fulani herdsmen.

Dachom contends that decisive government action could have stopped the violence long ago. Instead, he accuses the state of not only denying the severity of the situation but also of actively protecting those responsible for the attacks. This perceived bias, he argues, has created a climate of impunity.

Questioning Government Bias and Justice

The cleric pointed to a specific court case to illustrate his concerns about systemic bias. He revealed that a local farmer was sentenced to death after killing a Fulani herder in what was described as an act of self-defense. Dachom passionately defended the farmer’s actions, stating the young man did nothing wrong except attempt to protect himself from an attacker.

This legal outcome has fueled deeper anxieties within the Christian community. Evangelist Dachom openly questioned whether the government has effectively handed Nigeria over to Islam, expressing fear that Christians are being cornered. With courts appearing biased, he pondered who would come to their rescue, noting the grim choice many face: renounce their faith or face death. The situation continues to raise serious concerns about security and justice in the region.