Plateau State In Crisis: Escalating Violence Needs Urgent Federal Intervention

Plateau state, a region marred by a history of recurring crises, is once again thrust into the spotlight as violence escalates under the new administration.

The recent wave of attacks, ranging from land disputes to religious and ethnic conflicts, has reached unprecedented levels. The events leading up to Christmas marked a tragic turning point, with over 12 communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi LGAs facing a devastating onslaught by gunmen.

The night before Christmas, Plateau state witnessed one of the deadliest attacks in years, claiming the lives of more than 100 individuals, including men, women, and children. This brutal assault left no one spared, and the aftermath extended beyond immediate casualties, with numerous others displaced and some succumbing to their injuries in hospitals days later. Governor Caleb Mutfwang, addressing the incident, described it as “unprovoked attacks.”

It wasn’t over; earlier this week, there was a fresh Crisis in the same LGAs, which led to a
A declaration of a 24-hour curfew was issued by the state governor, and military personnel were deployed to the affected areas in an attempt to bolster security and quell the crisis.

Despite these efforts, the violence has persisted, with gunmen brazenly defying the curfew and causing additional casualties.

Social media platforms became a forum for voices to be heard, with individuals expressing their opinions on the dire situation.

One notable perspective came from @donfelix1 (on X), who emphasized the urgent need for prosecution state:

“Everything happens fast (from the crisis to the curfew).

The crisis in Plateau is more ethnic than religious and has been going on for a while. What exacerbated the whole crisis was the use of firearms to commit these atrocities.

The only way to solve the problem is prosecution.

The prosecution of those involved with the full wrath of the law.”

This call for accountability underscores the demand for justice to be served swiftly and decisively.

@DaaErsent01 (X), on the other hand, directed attention to the election promises made during the campaign, stating,

“When Plateau people voted out APC, it’s because they believe in the campaign of the PDP. The social contract must be fulfilled. No blame shifting. We didn’t vote Mutfwang for reference making to past regime. Secure us as you promised”.

The sentiment reflects the public’s expectation that elected officials fulfil their commitments to ensuring the safety and well-being of the citizens.

As the crisis continues to unfold, it becomes evident that the challenges facing Plateau State may exceed the capacity of the state government to manage effectively. In light of this, a conclusive and detailed intervention from the Federal government is imperative. The complexity and scale of the crisis necessitate a unified national response, leveraging federal resources and strategies to bring an end to the violence, address root causes, and restore stability.

Plateau State stands at a critical juncture, and only through a coordinated effort at the national level can lasting solutions be implemented. The Federal government must step in decisively, bridging the gaps where the state’s resources fall short and providing the necessary support to bring about enduring peace in this troubled region.

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