A group of Plateau State youths living in Lagos has expressed deep concern over the escalating insecurity in their home state, warning that the persistent violent attacks and killings make it impossible for them to return home to celebrate Christmas and New Year with their families.
The youths, organized under the Tarok Progressive Youths Association (TAPYA), held their maiden congress on Saturday at Plateau House, Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos. They used the occasion to appeal to the Federal and State governments, as well as security agencies, to strengthen security measures and back them with political will to end the wave of violence in Plateau State.
In his opening remarks, the Interim Chairman of TAPYA, Salvation Nanman, lamented the fear that many residents living outside the state feel whenever they consider returning home.
“We want people at home to live in peace and be able to go about their normal duties without fear of being attacked by any criminal elements,” Nanman said.
He highlighted that the youths, especially those residing in Lagos, are often afraid to return home due to ongoing threats from bandits and terrorists.
Nanman explained that TAPYA was originally founded in Jos in 2001 to foster unity, promote leadership, and amplify the voices of young people across Plateau State. The Lagos chapter, he said, was inaugurated about four months ago to address the needs of Tarok youths living in the diaspora.
The association is mainly composed of Tarok-speaking people from Langtang North, Langtang South, and parts of Wase Local Government Areas. Its objectives include empowering youths with skills, creating job opportunities, promoting law-abiding behavior, and contributing to the development of Plateau State, Lagos State, and Nigeria at large.
“TAPYA was established to ensure that our people are gainfully engaged, law-abiding, and live in harmony with host communities wherever they find themselves,” Nanman said.
The group also aims to promote Tarok culture and language, which they regard as central to their identity. According to Nanman, activities such as training, workshops, and mentorship programs will be organized to foster unity and build entrepreneurs and professionals among the youths.
Despite their efforts at empowerment and community development, TAPYA members said the security situation in Plateau State has dampened their hopes of returning home for the festive season.
“But now, most of us are afraid to go home to celebrate the upcoming Christmas and New Year with our families due to the insecurity and incessant violent attacks ongoing in Plateau State,” Nanman lamented.
The youths appealed to the state government and security agencies to prioritize the safety of lives and property. They stressed that their people are industrious and law-abiding, yet fear and insecurity have overshadowed their sense of homecoming and celebration.
Nanman urged the Plateau State Governor to take decisive action to address insecurity and unite the people, irrespective of political affiliations. He said strong leadership and political will are necessary to restore trust and a sense of normalcy in the state.
“We urge our governor back home to ensure the safety of lives and property. It is time to address our challenges, strengthen our unity and purpose, and set priorities for the future,” Nanman emphasized.
He added that the youths remain committed to the welfare and development of both their home state and host communities in Lagos, which they regard as a “home away from home.”
Plateau State, located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, has in recent years been plagued by communal clashes, banditry, and terrorist attacks, affecting residents’ ability to live safely and pursue economic activities.
The security challenges have not only disrupted daily life but also impacted diaspora communities, as seen in the concerns raised by TAPYA. The youths’ fears reflect broader anxiety among Nigerians living outside conflict-prone states who are often reluctant to return home for cultural or festive events.
Aside from highlighting insecurity, TAPYA is focused on youth empowerment and socio-economic development. Nanman outlined the association’s vision to equip young people with knowledge, skills, and resources for sustainable livelihoods.
“If we can invest in the education of our youths, get them economically engaged in chosen vocations, and support them to thrive, it will benefit Lagos State where we live, our home state, and Nigeria at large,” he said.
The association also seeks to foster cultural pride, mentorship, and community engagement, ensuring that young Tarok people, whether in Plateau or Lagos, remain connected to their roots while contributing positively to society.
TAPYA members stressed that addressing insecurity requires collective action, strong leadership, and collaboration between government and citizens. They called on state and federal authorities to strengthen security frameworks and take practical steps to protect lives.
Nanman concluded, “All we need to do is explore the economic opportunities that abound in the country to achieve a happy life and contribute to the happiness of others. But safety must come first. Our governor must do more to protect lives and unite the people of Plateau State.”