Plateau Assembly Summons LG Chairmen Over Rising Insecurity

The Plateau State House of Assembly has summoned all 17 local government chairmen across the state for an emergency session to address worsening security concerns, particularly in rural communities.

This development followed a motion of urgent public importance raised by Hon. Dickson Chollom, representing Barkin Ladi Constituency, during plenary. The motion, which was seconded by Hon. Eli Bako of Rukuba-Irigwe Constituency, highlighted recent attacks in Barkin Ladi, including the destruction of maize farms by unidentified assailants in the Mazat (Ganandaji) area on July 15, 2025.

According to proceedings monitored by iReporter Online, Chollom warned that the incident, which caused substantial damage to farmland, poses a serious threat to food security in the region. He called on the Assembly to urge the executive and security agencies to investigate the incident, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure justice is served.

The lawmaker also advocated for compensation for affected farmers to mitigate the economic impact and prevent deeper food shortages. He further called for greater collaboration between local government councils and community-based vigilante groups, describing them as essential partners in reinforcing state-led security efforts.

Following extensive deliberations, the Assembly unanimously adopted all the prayers contained in the motion. In response, Speaker Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil directed the Majority Leader to formally invite all local government chairmen for an interactive session aimed at identifying practical and lasting strategies to tackle insecurity across Plateau State.

The call comes as stakeholders express concern over the increasing vulnerability of rural areas to banditry and vandalism, with calls growing louder for a more grassroots-oriented approach to security management.