ABUJA, July 3, 2026 — The Berom Community Association, Abuja (BECA), has condemned remarks allegedly made by the Director-General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Professor Ayo Omotayo, describing the Berom people as a “militia,” demanding an immediate retraction and public apology.

In a press statement signed by its President, Da. Timothy Choji, on Friday, BECA described the comments as false, injurious, premature and capable of inflaming ethnic tensions, particularly as investigations into the recent security incident at the Institute are still ongoing.

According to the Association, Professor Omotayo made the remarks during a live interview on Arise Television on Thursday, July 2, while commenting on the security incident that occurred at the Institute on June 30.

The Director-General was also alleged to have claimed that members of the Berom community had been around the Institute seeking compensation over land issues.

BECA rejected the characterization of the Berom people as a militia, insisting that the ethnic nationality is known for its rich cultural heritage, agricultural livelihood and long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence with other communities.

“The labelling of the Berom people as a militia is entirely false, baseless and a gross misrepresentation of our history and identity,” the statement read.

The Association maintained that the Berom people have always regarded NIPSS as a foremost national institution and have continued to serve as peaceful hosts to the Institute since its establishment.

It further argued that the Director-General’s comments were prejudicial, noting that security agencies were yet to conclude investigations into the incident.

BECA also expressed concern over what it described as the selective use of language during the interview, alleging that while the suspected Berom assailant was described as belonging to a “militia,” others involved in the incident were referred to as “Fulani herdsmen.”

The Association urged the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Plateau State Government, the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities to investigate the Director-General’s public comments and determine whether they were consistent with the ethical responsibilities of his office.

It also demanded that Professor Omotayo publicly retract the statements and tender an unreserved apology to the Berom people within seven working days through at least two national newspapers and on the same television platform where the remarks were allegedly made.

BECA further appealed to the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da. Jacob Gyang Buba, to publicly address the matter, warning that continued silence could be interpreted as acceptance of the alleged characterization.

While calling on Berom people at home and in the diaspora to remain calm and law-abiding, the Association reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity and stability in Plateau State and Nigeria.

It also called on civil society organisations, stakeholders and the international community to support efforts aimed at promoting justice, fairness and responsible public discourse.

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BECA Demands Apology from NIPSS DG Over ‘Militia’ Remark Against Berom People