Insecurity: Plateau declares ‘state of war’ against terrorists

The Plateau State Government has declared what it described as a “state of war against terrorists and enemies of the state” following a series of coordinated attacks recorded across parts of the state in the last four months.

 

The declaration followed an emergency meeting of the State Security Council convened on Tuesday by Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the Rayfield Government House in Jos.

 

Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, said the council reviewed the worsening security situation and adopted measures aimed at protecting lives and property.

 

“Rising from the meeting, the Plateau State Security Council held an emergency session where the current security situation in the state was critically deliberated,” Jatau said.

 

The meeting was attended by security chiefs, chairmen of the 17 local government areas, and the Chairman of the Plateau State Joint Traditional Council, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba.

 

According to Jatau, the council observed that Plateau had remained under sustained attacks in recent months, with indications that the assaults were coordinated.

 

As part of efforts to restore security, the council resolved to strengthen enforcement of existing restrictions on motorcycle operations, night grazing and illegal mining activities, which authorities believe have contributed to insecurity in the state.

 

The council also directed security agencies to reclaim ungoverned territories, public institutions and other vulnerable locations across the state.

 

To support security operations, the government approved additional logistics, including motorcycles and operational vehicles, to improve rapid response and field operations.

 

The council further agreed to enhance intelligence sharing and collaboration between local government security structures and host communities.

 

On public order, the government warned that obstruction of highways would now be treated as a criminal offence, with violators facing prosecution.

 

Authorities also stressed the need to secure farmlands ahead of the farming season to ensure safe agricultural activities for residents.

 

Traditional rulers were urged to strengthen supervision of cultural and community associations within their domains.

 

Declaring the government’s position, Jatau said, “Plateau State is in a state of war with terrorists and enemies of the state.”

 

He added that the administration remained committed to protecting the lives, property and communities of residents across the state.

 

The government also announced a renewed crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse, declaring war on drug dealers, suppliers and users operating in the state.