Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
JOS, Nigeria – The Gbong Gwom Jos, Jacob Buba Gyang, has suspended the 2026 Nzem Berom Cultural Festival over escalating insecurity across Plateau State.
The festival, earlier scheduled for April 24, was halted following consultations with traditional leaders, Berom groups and community stakeholders, amid growing concerns over public safety.
Speaking in Jos on Thursday, the monarch said the decision became necessary despite advanced preparations, including invitations to dignitaries and the establishment of an organising committee.
Recent attacks in communities such as Bokkos, Mangu and Barkin Ladi, which have resulted in deaths and displacement, influenced the move.
“This was a difficult but necessary decision taken in the interest of public safety,” he said.
Gyang noted that the Berom community is currently mourning victims of violence, making the period unsuitable for celebration.
He reassured that the festival was not cancelled but postponed, with a new date to be announced when security conditions improve.
The monarch urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with intelligence, adding that the traditional council would continue collaborating with authorities to restore peace.
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