An Urgent Call to End the Rampant Killings in Plateau State

The recent brutal attacks in Plateau State carried out by armed gunmen have raised significant concerns among the governors of the North Central states. The Chairman of the North Central Governors’ Forum and governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, led a delegation to offer condolences to the Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang. During the visit, the governors expressed their deep distress over the prolonged attacks and killings in the region, and called on the Federal Government to urgently find a lasting solution to the problem.

It is worth noting that the attacks on Christmas Eve resulted in the tragic deaths of over 200 individuals in 25 communities across three local government areas of Plateau – Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu. The governors underscored the necessity for direct involvement of religious leaders in promoting peace and unity among the people.

In addition, the North Central governors announced their intention to host a security and economic summit, emphasizing their commitment to addressing the widespread insecurity. They also made a donation of N100 million to provide support for the victims of the attacks.

Meanwhile, former Senate President, Senator David Mark, has urged the Federal Government to take decisive action to put an end to the bloodshed in Plateau. He called for a review of the existing security framework in order to tackle the prevalent security challenges in the country.

In response to the attacks, the Plateau governor declared a one-week mourning period and called for intensive prayers for peace in the troubled state. He also stressed the importance of a concerted effort to combat armed banditry, terrorism, and criminal activities in the region.

Following the massacre, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, confirmed significant progress in capturing suspects linked to the attacks. The military is collaborating with state governments to identify and reclaim communities captured by terrorists across the country.

Furthermore, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has advocated for the liberalisation of arms licensing to prevent large-scale kidnapping, serial mass killings, and genocidal acts by armed non-state actors. The group called for support for private ownership of arms to enhance citizens’ ability to defend themselves.

The military acknowledged that challenges persist in responding to security threats, as the vastness of the affected areas poses logistical difficulties. Gen. Musa highlighted the importance of political will and support from the government in addressing the prevailing insecurity in the country.

As the urgency to end the killings in Plateau intensifies, it is imperative for the Federal Government to take prompt and decisive actions to restore peace and security in the region. The collaborative efforts of the North Central governors, military authorities, and civil society groups underscore the urgent need to address the escalating insecurity and prevent further loss of lives.