Security Dialogue in Jos: Lawmakers, Governor Push for Local Policing and Unity

Timescope News 

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has called for stronger community policing and grassroots security measures to tackle rising insecurity across the country.

Speaking at a one-day security dialogue in Jos, Abbas said the National Assembly remains committed to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s plan to establish state police. He explained that the dialogue was convened to generate practical solutions aimed at restoring peace in Plateau State and other troubled areas.

Represented by the member for Mikang, Shendam, and Qua'an-Pan federal constituency, John Dafan, the Speaker stressed the need to empower local communities. He urged support for responsible vigilante groups and traditional institutions to play active roles in safeguarding their environments, within the limits of the law.

Abbas also emphasized the importance of providing relief to victims of violence, calling on all levels of government to prioritise rehabilitation, compensation, and reintegration programmes, alongside rebuilding affected communities. He reaffirmed that a coordinated approach involving both national and local actors remains key to achieving lasting peace.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the chairman of the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on Security Challenges in Plateau State, Wale Hammed, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to restoring lasting peace in the state. He expressed confidence in renewed federal efforts, noting that President Tinubu has prioritised Plateau through increased security and humanitarian support. Hammed stressed that lasting peace requires collaboration among government, traditional rulers, and community groups, adding that dialogue and inclusion are key to resolving conflicts. He assured that the committee will sustain engagement with stakeholders until peace is fully restored.

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, called for unity, collaboration, and decisive action to tackle ongoing security challenges. He described the gathering as timely and necessary, bringing together key actors committed to restoring peace and stability. The governor commended the House of Representatives for setting up the ad-hoc committee, noting that the crisis is part of a wider national concern requiring collective solutions.

Governor Mutfwang acknowledged that past administrations—including those of Joshua Dariye, Jonah David Jang, and Simon Lalong—made efforts to address recurring violence, but challenges have persisted. He said his administration has taken steps to strengthen security, including revamping Operation Rainbow, improving intelligence gathering, and investing in modern surveillance technology. He added that over 300 operational vehicles have been restored and motorcycles deployed to enhance rapid response, especially in rural communities.

The governor also emphasised dialogue and reconciliation, highlighting the role of the Inter-Faith Advisory Council in promoting trust among diverse groups. While noting a period of relative peace and increased investor confidence in the state, he admitted that recent attacks in some rural areas remain a concern.

Governor Mutfwang stressed that security goes beyond military action, saying it must include justice, economic opportunity, and inclusion for all citizens. “The challenges are real, but they are not beyond resolution. We must address both the immediate threats and the root causes of conflict,” he said. He urged stakeholders to avoid blame and focus on practical solutions, adding that lasting peace depends on trust, fairness, and a shared commitment to the common good.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property and called on all citizens to promote unity and reject divisive narratives. He expressed optimism that the dialogue would lead to concrete actions toward lasting peace in Plateau State and beyond.

Our correspondent reports that the dialogue brought together security agencies, government officials, and community leaders to find lasting solutions to Plateau’s security challenges.