• Arewa Forum calls for a state of emergency as survivors recount horrors
David Arin | Jos
DAILY COURIER - The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has vowed that the Federal Government will bring an end to the persistent killings and attacks plaguing communities in Plateau State, particularly in the Bokkos Local Government Area.
During a weekend operational visit to the headquarters of Operation Safe Haven in Jos, Ribadu described the violence as “unacceptable,” assuring residents that the government would no longer fold its arms while innocent Nigerians are slaughtered.
“Enough is enough,” Ribadu declared. “We are addressing the root causes, and these attacks must stop. The government is fully determined to restore peace and justice.”
His visit comes on the heels of a series of brutal attacks in Hurti, Manguna, and three other villages in Bokkos LGA that claimed over 50 lives, left more than 300 homes razed, and displaced over 700 residents. Survivors say dozens are still missing, with several victims buried in mass graves.
‘We buried 30 people in one grave’
Yohanna Michael, a resident of Hurti, recounted the horror.
“We buried over thirty people in one mass grave. Many are still missing. We need help to find and bury our dead.”
Most of the displaced villagers, now camping in open fields and school compounds, have been cut off from their farmlands and livelihoods. Many are fearful of returning unless security is guaranteed.
Gov’t Visits, Relief Efforts Underway
The Plateau State Government, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, visited affected communities to assess the level of destruction and distribute emergency relief materials including food, mattresses, and toiletries.
However, community leaders are asking for more than aid.
The District Head of Manguna appealed for permanent deployment of security forces to deter future attacks and reduce rural-urban migration.
“Without sustained security presence, we are vulnerable. Our people will continue to flee if nothing is done,” he lamented.
ACF: Declare State of Security Emergency
The Arewa Consultative Forum has weighed in, condemning the attacks in strong terms and urging the Federal Government to declare a state of security emergency in Plateau and other violence-prone states.
In a statement signed by Tukur Muhammad-Baba, its National Publicity Secretary, the forum decried the Federal Government’s “slow and weak response” to the carnage.
“The people are in great pain, compounded by economic hardship. The Plateau killings must stop immediately,” the statement read.
“We call for intensified intelligence gathering, prompt arrests and prosecution of perpetrators, and full compensation for the victims.”
Justice and Dialogue Needed
The ACF urged both federal and state governments to empower traditional rulers, elders, clergy, and civil society groups to engage in community dialogue aimed at reconciliation and long-term peacebuilding.
The group also called on citizens to share credible intelligence with security agencies and on lawmakers to hold the government accountable for the safety of lives and property.
As of press time, security operations were still ongoing in the affected communities, with combined forces from the military, police, and local vigilantes combing forests and surrounding farmlands for suspects.
SIDEBAR: What We Know So Far
- Date of attacks: March 30 – April 5, 2025
- Local government affected: Bokkos LGA, Plateau State
- Communities hit: Hurti, Manguna, and three others
- Casualties: Over 50 killed, 30+ buried in mass graves
- Displacement: 700+ persons displaced
- Property loss: 300+ homes burnt
- Response: Visit by NSA Ri
badu, relief by state govt, military deployment ongoing
