The Senate has passed a motion urging the Federal Government (FG) to enhance security operations in Plateau State, particularly in the crisis-prone areas of Mangu, Bokkos, Bassa, and Riyom Local Government Areas.
The motion, sponsored by Sen. Plang Diket Satso (Plateau Central) and co-sponsored by Sen. Dachung Pam Nwadkom (Plateau North) and Sen. Simon Bako Along (Plateau South), at a plenary last week, highlights the urgent need for increased security measures to protect lives and property .
According to the motion, Plateau State, once known for its peace and tourism, has been plagued by incessant crises and attacks by marauding criminals, adding that recent attacks have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of residents. The Senate however notes that the crisis appears to be a well-coordinated and orchestrated attack, with multiple villages being attacked simultaneously.
Recalled that on April 2, 2025 unknown gunmen attacked six villages in Bokkos Local Government Area, killing over 52 people and displacing over 2000 residents, adding that on April 14, 2025 over 51 persons were reportedly killed in an attack on Zike and Kimakpu villages in Bassa Local Government Area.
After observing some minutes silence for those killed, the Senate urges the FG to: Establish a permanent military base in Jeneret village in Mangu Local Government Area and Riyom and Bokkos Local Government Areas to prevent further attacks and; Complete the Panyam-Kombun-Bokkos-Wamba Road to boost economic activities and enhance security.
Others are for the FG to: Upscale communication operations in the affected areas to ensure easy access to communication; Develop and implement a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for affected communities, including rebuilding of destroyed homes, schools, and healthcare facilities and; Send a high-powered delegation to condole with the people of Plateau State over the irreparable losses.
The Senate noted that the crisis is eroding the state’s peaceful nature and ambience, and that the attacks are a worrisome development that if not addressed, may escalate into a national crisis. The crisis has also grounded agricultural activities, posing a threat to food security not only in Plateau State but the nation at large.
