The Plateau State Government convened an emergency security council meeting following a series of violent incidents that escalated tensions in Jos, the state capital, and other areas.
The session, chaired by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, included the Deputy Governor, senior officials, and heads of the state’s security agencies. Governor Mutfwang reviewed security developments over the past two weeks, including a mining-related incident in Wase Local Government Area and multiple attacks resulting in fatalities across the state. He extended condolences to victims’ families, describing many deaths as preventable.
“We have just finished a very high-level security council meeting where we examined all that has happened on the Plateau in recent days,” he said, adding that the government has instituted measures to prevent a recurrence.
The governor praised security agencies for their swift response and assured that efforts were ongoing to enhance response times to distress calls. He condemned attacks on travellers and communities, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate unlawful acts.
Key directives announced include:
-
Only authorised law enforcement agencies may set up roadblocks; unauthorised checkpoints will not be tolerated.
-
Community leaders will be held accountable if residents harm travellers.
-
Claims that Plateau roads are unsafe were dismissed as mischaracterisations of isolated incidents.
-
The government will act against individuals spreading misinformation or inciting violence on social media.
Governor Mutfwang also commended youths in the state for exercising restraint despite provocations.
Police Commissioner Bassey Ewah highlighted that security agencies are employing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to reassure residents and restore confidence. He confirmed that operatives are pursuing those responsible for recent attacks and stressed that law enforcement would be applied without prejudice.
