Security and governance issues in Plateau State

Violence in Plateau State has prompted calls for increased security and government intervention. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) condemned a series of deadly attacks on Berom communities, including Gwa-Wereng Rim and Kyeng Village, which resulted in killings, arson, and displacement. The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Caleb Mutfwang to implement concrete measures to protect remote rural areas.

In response to local security and governance issues, Governor Mutfwang declared the activities of a group known as Hisba in the Jos North Local Government Area to be illegal. The Governor stated that the group had allegedly engaged in intimidation, harassment, and extortion. He emphasized that “no individual or group has the authority to appoint itself the government of Plateau State,” and directed security agencies to investigate the group and prosecute those involved in its unauthorized operations.

The administration clarified that this crackdown is not directed at any specific religion, ethnic group, or community, but is focused on maintaining lawful authority and protecting residents from unauthorized enforcement bodies. Mutfwang has ordered security agencies to halt these activities and investigate anyone suspected of sponsoring or aiding the group.