Following a recent massacre in Plateau State, Nigeria, where nearly 200 people were killed in coordinated attacks over the course of three days, there have been calls for a thorough investigation, the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators, and the development of a lasting solution to the ongoing violence in the region. This is not the first time that violence has disrupted the Christmas season in Plateau State, with a similar massacre occurring in 2010, resulting in the death of 2,000 people. Plateau State was once known for its peacefulness, but since a violent outbreak in 2001, triggered by ethno-religious tensions, there have been recurring cycles of violence driven by politics, religious differences, farmer-herder conflicts, banditry, and terrorism.
The recent attacks in Plateau State reveal a lack of accountability and responsibility on the part of security forces tasked with protecting the lives and property of the people in the area. The military’s excuse that they could not access the affected communities due to rough terrain is deemed unacceptable, raising questions about the lack of strategic planning and intervention by security forces in the region. The response time of the security forces to distress calls during the recent attacks was also criticized, as the killing spree continued for three days without any effective intervention.
There have been calls for an extensive investigation into the Plateau State crises, with a focus on uncovering the funding and sponsorship behind the attacks. Additionally, there is a need for state and local levels of policing to complement the centralized system currently in place, as it has proven inadequate in providing effective protection for ordinary Nigerians. The allegations of ethnic cleansing and land grabbing by invaders should also be carefully examined.
In the meantime, it is suggested that the governors in the region could adopt the Amotekun model, a regional security outfit developed by South West governors to combat banditry in their forests. Peacebuilding measures among different ethnic and religious groups in the area are also advocated for, along with the implementation of recommendations from previous inquiries into cases of violence.
Overall, there is a need for a comprehensive and proactive approach to address the ongoing violence in Plateau State, including thorough investigations, accountability for security forces, and the development of effective security strategies to prevent future attacks.
