MBF Urges Plateau, Benue Governors To Unite Against Worsening Terror Attacks

MBF Urges Plateau, Benue Governors To Unite Against Worsening Terror Attacks

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has urged the governors of Plateau and Benue states to collaborate and adopt proactive measures to defend their citizens from persistent terrorist attacks.

This call comes amid mounting criticism of the Federal Government’s handling of insecurity, with Rear Admiral Bitrus Atukum (retd.), a former Military Governor of Plateau State, describing the response as ineffective and overly cautious.…READ MORE…

Speaking to The PUNCH in Jos, the MBF’s National President, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that attacks in both states have become alarmingly frequent. He called for urgent, coordinated efforts by state leaders, advocating military principles that emphasize a strong offense as the best form of defense.

Dr. Pogu pointed out that the violence has outgrown the conventional herder-farmer clashes, evolving into full-blown terrorism supported by sophisticated tactics. He referenced a prevailing sense of intimidation among citizens, especially when defending themselves, noting a judicial precedent in Adamawa that discourages retaliation by victims.

Quoting the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Pogu stressed that communities must serve as the first line of defense. He encouraged residents to take initiative in protecting their lives and property, warning that passivity could invite further tragedy. According to him, the MBF is closely monitoring the situation and will counsel governors accordingly.

“This is not the time to sit idly while people are attacked and killed. Communities must be alert and proactive in defense efforts,” Pogu stated. “If nothing is done, the violence will continue to spread. The time to act is now.”

In a similar vein, Rear Admiral Atukum criticized the federal response, questioning the absence of military intervention in known terrorist hideouts. He expressed concern over the advanced weaponry used by attackers and the likelihood of external backing.

Atukum argued that the ultimate objective of the attackers is to displace indigenous populations from their ancestral lands and plunge them into poverty. He called for the formal designation of these assailants as terrorists and the deployment of robust military operations to dismantle their bases.

He also voiced support for the creation of state police, recommending that officers be recruited locally for effective community-based policing.

“These individuals committing mass killings should be declared terrorists. The authorities must stop referring to them as ‘unknown gunmen.’ They are known, and enough is enough,” Atukum declared. “The security forces must act decisively to eliminate these threats once and for all.