The Nigerian Bar Association has issued a urgent call for stronger security measures in Plateau State, where communities continue to suffer deadly attacks despite imposed curfews. The group warns that the cycle of violence undermines public confidence and threatens the social contract.

Introduction

Following a series of deadly raids across central Nigeria, the NBA has called for urgent coordinated measures from both federal and Plateau State authorities. The association argues that the continued loss of lives and property is not only a breach of constitutional duty but also a direct attack on the social contract between the state and its citizens.

What Happened

Recent assaults across Local Government Areas including Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Bokkos have left numerous dead and displaced families. The NBA specifically condemned the killing of community vigilantes at their duty post in Kikyau village during curfew hours, as well as reported strikes in Kantoma and Bin-Per villages. Additional attacks were documented in Kassa, Wereh, Ropp, Fan, and Marit districts within Barkin Ladi, painting a picture of widespread insecurity that persists despite official restrictions. The association cited Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to life, and stressed that the state's primary duty is the protection of lives and property.

Why This Matters

Beyond the immediate human cost, the sustained violence raises serious constitutional and governance concerns. When citizens' right to security is not guaranteed, public confidence erodes, national cohesion weakens, and the rule of law is undermined. The NBA's statement highlights that unchecked insecurity can lead to total anarchy if left unaddressed. The group also pointed to the operating environment for security operatives, noting a near-absence of state-procured vehicles at flashpoints and delayed responses that allow attackers to flee before help arrives. These gaps fuel a sense of impunity among perpetrators.

Key Takeaways

  • The NBA has called for an executive bill to move security oversight onto the Concurrent Legislative List, giving state governors greater control over local security operations.
  • Officials commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang's initiatives, including the revamped neighbourhood watch, Operation Rainbow, training of 2000 personnel, and the establishment of a central monitoring centre in Jos.
  • The association urged the licensing of Operation Rainbow and Neighbourhood Watch personnel to operate under frontline security agency supervision.
  • Further demands include amending the Plateau State Operation Rainbow law, enacting an Anti-Land Grabbing Law, and deploying additional police structures and forward operating bases across the state.
  • Border cooperation between Plateau, Bauchi, and Taraba states is being pushed to close security gaps along shared boundaries.
  • Traditional rulers are urged to safeguard community property and report unusual influxes, while local government chairmen should reside in their jurisdictions to improve coordination.
  • On the judiciary, the NBA advocated for time-bound trials of terrorism-related cases and public disclosure of case outcomes to strengthen trust in the justice system.

Conclusion

The Nigerian Bar Association emphasized that peace without justice is fragile, and justice without accountability is incomplete. Its branches in Plateau pledged to support lawful efforts to identify, investigate, and prosecute perpetrators of violence, while also providing legal aid to vulnerable and displaced persons.

With concrete policy shifts, better-equipped security forces, and strengthened community-government collaboration, the path to lasting safety in Plateau State becomes more attainable. The association's stance serves as an urgent call for all levels of government to prioritize the fundamental right to life and security for every Nigerian.