Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Plateau State have voiced their concerns about the devastating effects of inter-communal conflicts in the region and are now calling for the creation of a North Central Development Commission to address the damages caused.
Speaking at a press conference in Jos, the capital of Plateau State, the Chairman of the Plateau CSOs forum, Rev Chris Damcher, emphasized the urgent need for concerted efforts to find a solution to the incessant killings and destruction of properties that have plagued the region for decades.
Rev Damcher expressed dismay over the escalating violence, describing it as a massacre and a barbaric act that goes against the sanctity of human life.
“The recent attack on innocent community dwellers in Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin-Ladi LGAs on Christmas Eve and Christmas day is not only devastating but also cowardly and wicked. It is unacceptable by any standard to surround and kill innocent and harmless people in their sleep without provocation,” Rev Damcher stated.
The CSOs also criticized the security agents’ inability to respond effectively to early warning signals regarding imminent attacks. They noted that often, such warnings are circulated on social media platforms but are not taken seriously or acted upon by the security agencies.
“The lack of proactive measures by security operatives to counter these early warnings is deeply concerning. These senseless attacks have severe consequences, including hindering formal education, compromising healthcare, threatening food security, and causing loss of livelihood, among other issues,” the CSOs lamented.
Meanwhile, the Transition Committee chairmen of the 17 local government areas in Plateau State have condemned the Christmas Eve attack on three local government areas, describing it as a monumental tragedy and loss for the people of Plateau State.
They called for united efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for these heinous acts. The chairmen commended the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his support to the Nigerian Army in maintaining security, as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, for their commitment to address the security challenges facing Plateau State.
Additionally, they acknowledged the visit of the Vice President Kashim Shettima and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to the affected areas on the Plateau as a rapid response measure to address the situation.
“Plateau CSOs Demand North Central Development Over Escalating Violence”
