Plateau State Assembly considers police bill amid Barkin Ladi killings

In Plateau State, Nigeria, residents of the Gassa community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area staged protests after gunmen killed three vigilantes, including a local youth leader. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the group at approximately 1 a.m. while they were on duty. In response, local women and youths blocked a major road linking the community to Mangu, expressing frustration over the perceived inaction of security personnel despite repeated attacks.

The Plateau State House of Assembly has responded to the escalating insecurity by commencing consideration of a bill to establish State Police Services through constitutional amendment. Additionally, the Assembly has demanded an emergency security intervention in Barkin Ladi, calling for the full occupation of the Mobile Police Barracks in Gashish. The House urged Governor Caleb Mutfwang to coordinate with federal authorities to provide humanitarian support and strengthen the security presence in affected communities.