Dr. Julie Sanda, Director General of the Plateau Peacebuilding Agency (PPBA), has called for a unified, unbiased approach to tackling criminality across Plateau State.
Addressing community leaders, security agencies, and local government officials in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, she emphasized that crime does not discriminate based on ethnicity or religion, urging stakeholders to be courageous in confronting the issue. The event was held as part of ongoing efforts to address rising criminal activities which have plagued parts of the state.
In her remarks, Dr. Sanda said, “Criminality resides in the heart of every criminal, regardless of their ethnic group or their religion. This is not a battle of one tribe against another; it is a battle against lawlessness, and we must treat it as such.” She urged the communities to stop shielding perpetrators due to ethnic loyalties, calling for a collective stance in addressing these security challenges.
Dr. Sanda acknowledged that while violent conflicts in the region have somewhat subsided, the emergence of organized criminal groups is a new threat that needs urgent attention. “What we are seeing now is a different kind of threat – organized crime that targets vulnerable communities,” Dr. Sanda noted. She stressed that the only way forward is through collaboration between the public and the security agencies, emphasizing that both groups must work together to root out the problem.
The Director General also called on local leaders and traditional rulers to play a more proactive role in ensuring the safety of their communities. She commended their previous efforts but urged them to intensify their involvement. “It is not enough to keep engaging; today, we are asking our traditional rulers and community heads to be even more vigilant and to lead from the front. The safety of your communities starts with you,” she added.
Moreover, she underscored the need for building the capacity of these community leaders to ensure that they are well-equipped to take the lead in securing their environments. “Our role at the Plateau Peacebuilding Agency is to support and guide, but the actual responsibility for peace and security lies with the communities themselves,” Dr. Sanda explained. She reiterated that true peacebuilding must be driven by those most affected by insecurity.
Finally, the Director General highlighted the importance of inclusivity in peacebuilding efforts, particularly the involvement of women, youth, and people with disabilities. “We believe in working with every group within the community, including the most vulnerable, to make sure their voices are heard. Every person has a role to play in ensuring peace,” she concluded
