A video circulating widely on social media has drawn public attention after Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, a pastor of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) and human rights advocate in Plateau State, made strong remarks about insecurity, communal violence and the protection of vulnerable communities.
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Addressing a large gathering from the back of a Hilux vehicle, Rev. Dachomo expressed deep frustration over the persistent killings in parts of Plateau State and urged residents to prepare to defend themselves in the face of what he described as worsening security challenges.
According to the cleric, the current security situation has left many communities feeling abandoned and vulnerable.
“We’re losing security, and there’s no security… everybody go for self-defence. Defend yourself to death,” he declared.
Rev. Dachomo also claimed that the withdrawal of United States military personnel from Nigeria was influenced by concerns over the safety of American troops. He alleged that insurgent groups had infiltrated elements of Nigeria’s security architecture, making cooperation increasingly risky.
“America left Nigeria because American soldiers’ lives are in danger. They’re afraid to work with our security because their lives are in danger,” he said.
The pastor further alleged that armed attackers frequently target civilians in Plateau communities, accusing authorities of downplaying the scale of the violence.
“The government is saying there’s no genocide, while we’re saying there’s genocide. They have reports of frequent killings in Plateau State,” he stated.
In one of the most emotional moments of his address, Rev. Dachomo said Christians should continue to show compassion toward peaceful members of other ethnic and religious communities despite the violence.
“We’ll continue to love the Hausa people, the Fulani people. We’ll continue to pray for them. If they’re hungry, we’ll feed them. If they’re suffering, we’ll give them shelter. That is what Jesus taught us.”
He also contrasted Christian teachings on forgiveness with his views on Islam, making remarks that are likely to generate debate among religious observers.
The video has generated widespread reactions online, with supporters describing his speech as a reflection of the frustration felt by communities affected by repeated attacks, while critics have expressed concern that some of his comments encouraging armed self-defence could further heighten tensions.
The Federal Government has consistently maintained that it is committed to tackling insecurity across the country through military and other security operations. Authorities have repeatedly appealed to citizens to cooperate with security agencies and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
Several of Rev. Dachomo’s claims—including his explanation for the reported withdrawal of U.S. forces from Nigeria, allegations of infiltration within Nigeria’s security services, and assertions regarding government motives—have not been independently verified. Likewise, his characterization of events as “genocide” reflects his personal position and remains the subject of public, legal and political debate.
The viral address underscores the continuing national conversation over insecurity, communal violence, and the urgent search for lasting peace in Plateau State and other affected parts of Nigeria.
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