Insecurity: Plateau Government Vows Crackdown On Terrorists, Drug Syndicates

According to Ireporter Online, the Plateau State Government has declared what it described as a “state of war against terrorists and enemies of the state” following a surge in violent attacks and worsening insecurity across several communities in the state.

The declaration followed an emergency meeting of the State Security Council held at the Government House in Rayfield, Jos, and convened by Governor Caleb Mutfwang. The high-level session had in attendance top security commanders, 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. After a comprehensive review of the security situation, the government said it could no longer treat the incidents as isolated attacks, noting that several communities had suffered sustained assaults over the past four months, suggesting coordinated criminal activity. Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, said the council resolved to adopt more aggressive measures, including declaring that Plateau State is now in a state of war against terrorists and other threats to public peace. He added that the administration remains fully committed to defending residents and restoring stability across affected areas.

As part of the resolutions reached, the government directed security agencies to intensify enforcement of existing bans on motorcycle operations, night grazing, and illegal mining, which were identified as contributing factors to insecurity in some areas. Authorities were also tasked with reclaiming vulnerable and ungoverned communities, as well as public facilities reportedly under threat or occupation by criminal elements. The state further approved additional operational support for security agencies, including motorcycles and vehicles to enhance rapid response efforts. In a further directive, the government warned that anyone obstructing highways or public roads would henceforth be treated as a criminal and prosecuted accordingly. The council also emphasized stronger intelligence sharing between communities, local government security structures, and traditional institutions, while urging traditional rulers to intensify monitoring of groups within their domains. In addition, the government announced a renewed crackdown on drug trafficking and substance abuse, stating that operations against dealers, suppliers, and users would be intensified as part of broader efforts to address the root causes of insecurity. The administration reaffirmed its resolve to restore peace and protect lives and property across Plateau State.