The federal government has vowed to intensify security measures in Plateau State following recent violent incidents that claimed over 50 lives in Bokkos Local Government Area.
Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), while speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmad Tinubu on Sunday in Jos, expressed condolences to the people of Plateau and praised the efforts of both the state government and security forces in maintaining peace amidst the crisis.
“On behalf of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola-Ahmad tinubu, I am here to greet the people of Plateau, to extend his condolences over what we have witnessed in the last few days, the crisis that erupted”.
The president emphasized the need for unity and collective responsibility in addressing the long-standing security challenges in the state.
He acknowledged that the violence in Plateau has been a recurring issue for over 20 years, with similar incidents intermittently affecting the state.
Despite the challenges, he noted that significant progress had been made in improving the security situation.
He pointed to a reduction in major incidents, referencing the relative calm since December 2023, and underscored that while the recent events were tragic, they were not on the same scale as past outbreaks of violence.
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“Of course, we have to understand, this is a long-standing issue that has been ongoing for decades. For over 20 years we’ve had this.
“But you know, the issue of security and situations like this it’s relative. You have to look at it from the point of what was happening before and what is happening now.
“I think we have made a bit of progress. The last time we had any serious incident was in December 2023. And now this one”; he said.
President Tinubu also highlighted the critical role of community involvement in preventing further violence. He warned that when communities fail to resolve internal disputes peacefully, criminal elements take advantage, escalating tensions into full-blown crises.
He stressed that the federal and state governments, alongside the security agencies, were working tirelessly to restore order and peace.
The efforts of the Plateau State governor were particularly praised for contributing to the relative improvement in security in recent years.
President Tinubu added that the time for violence to continue was over. He assured the people of Plateau that the federal government would double its efforts to ensure lasting peace and security in the state.
He reiterated that the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of citizens was unwavering and that more resources would be allocated to strengthen security measures across the state.
The commander in chief also called on the media to report accurate and responsible information, stressing that truth-telling was essential for maintaining public trust and fostering peace.
“We also appeal to the media to verify and report accurate, appropriate information. Telling the truth helps us get through this together”.
He emphasized that everyone, from the government to the citizens, had a role to play in ensuring that peace prevails.
The president urged Nigerians to unite in the fight against violence and insecurity, noting that no progress could be achieved without a peaceful environment.
