Major General E.F. Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding the Nigerian Army’s 3rd Division in Jos and commander of the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), has assured Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo of full protection following claims that the clergyman has been targeted with death threats.
Rev. Dachomo, regional chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi, has posted videos on his Facebook page saying he has received calls and text messages from individuals threatening to kill him because of his vocal criticism of alleged attacks on Christians in Plateau State. In one recorded message he shared, the cleric alleged that threats have been issued “even on social media” and referenced the killing of Senator Gyang Dantong during a burial as an example.
An online post attributed to the decentralised collective known as Anonymous warned that “Islamic extremists and bandits” had circulated photos of Rev. Dachomo and, the post said, issued orders to assassinate him within seven days. The post urged readers to alert the pastor’s family and community. The claims in the post could not be independently verified from the material supplied.
Speaking while worshipping at COCIN in Barkin Ladi, Gen. Oyinlola said he had personally visited Rev. Dachomo to commend his advocacy and to reassure him that “no harm will come” to him or to Christians in the state going forward. The general said all arms of the Nigerian military are prepared to work together to halt violence and killings in the area.
The GOC said his decision to worship outside Maxwell Khobe Barracks for the first time was motivated by respect for the cleric’s work and a desire to demonstrate solidarity. He told congregants the military would act decisively to protect civilians and to investigate threats against community leaders.
Rev. Dachomo has publicly stated that, despite the threats, he is unafraid and will continue to “speak truth to power” and defend his community. His videos and statements have drawn attention and controversy in the state, including, he says, accusations that he is inciting tensions.
The military’s assurances come amid longstanding communal and religious tensions in parts of Plateau State, where attacks and reprisals have periodically led to civilian casualties and displacement. Authorities and civil society groups have repeatedly called for calm and for credible investigations into reported incidents.
No arrests or military operations tied specifically to the threats against Rev. Dachomo were announced at the service. Officials from the Nigerian Army did not immediately provide additional details on protective measures or ongoing inquiries.
