Plateau Crisis: Woman Gives Birth in Open Amid Allegations of Military Bias

In the midst of escalating violence and destruction in Mangu town, Plateau State, a pregnant woman identified as Zainab bravely gave birth to a baby boy in the open. This harrowing incident occurred as the state witnessed relentless killings and property devastation throughout Tuesday and Wednesday nights, according to reports by Daily Trust.

Leaders of Christian and Islamic groups have raised concerns, accusing both the military and a vigilante group known as Operation Rainbow of taking sides in the conflict. The fresh attacks, starting on Tuesday, resulted in an undisclosed number of casualties, with conflicting reports from local sources.

Efforts to confirm the death toll faced obstacles, as Nigeria Red Cross officials focused on providing humanitarian relief rather than counting the dead bodies. Despite the 24-hour curfew imposed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Tuesday, the attacks persisted on Wednesday, leaving residents in fear.

Desperation Amidst Chaos: Woman Gives Birth in the Streets

Zainab, a 25-year-old mother of two, recounted her ordeal as she delivered her baby amidst the chaos. Frightened by gunshots and witnessing atrocities, she described how her baby unexpectedly slipped out while she stood in the open. With no medical assistance or facilities nearby, a neighbor assisted in the impromptu delivery.

Zainab’s desperate situation is compounded by the ongoing violence, preventing her from accessing medical care and basic necessities for herself and her newborn. The challenges extend to others affected, with stories emerging of decapitated bodies, burnt houses, and lost family members.

Accusations and Counterclaims: Operation Rainbow Under Scrutiny

As violence escalated, accusations emerged against the state-owned security outfit, Operation Rainbow, of extrajudicial killings and arson in Mangu. Residents from different communities alleged that the group, along with armed gunmen, targeted specific areas, burning houses and schools.

Operation Rainbow has denied these allegations, asserting that their personnel consist of various security agencies and operate without bias. The accusations have further heightened tensions, with calls for federal intervention to address the deteriorating security situation.

Religious Leaders Speak Out: Calls for Peace Amidst Chaos

Amidst the chaos, leaders of religious groups, including the Plateau State chapter of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), expressed concern over the violence. JNI accused Operation Rainbow of bias, while the CAN chairman called for the withdrawal of soldiers from Mangu, alleging their involvement in favoritism.

In a video that went viral, Rev. Timothy Daluk, the CAN chairman of Mangu LG, declared their readiness to fight if the government did not heed their plea for intervention. He accused the military of lopsidedness and called for a global understanding of the dire situation in Mangu.

The Plateau State government assured ongoing efforts to restore peace in Mangu and across the state, condemning the destruction of properties and urging religious bodies to promote harmony.