In a recent interview with Channels TV, Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos, the former House of Representatives member representing Jos South – Jos East federal constituency, shed light on the root causes of the renewed attacks in Plateau State. Bagos attributed the fresh wave of attacks in the region to conflicts over the control of mineral resources.
Bagos emphasized that the struggle for dominance over these valuable resources has escalated tensions among local communities, leading to tragic and violent confrontations.
He explained that the Plateau region, rich in minerals such as tin and columbite, has long been a hotspot for resource-related conflicts. These resources, coupled with weak regulatory oversight and inadequate security measures, have created a fertile ground for conflict.
“The incessant killings in Plateau are not merely a result of ethnic or religious differences, but are primarily driven by the competition for control over lucrative mineral deposits,” Bagos stated during the interview.
He called for a comprehensive approach to address the issue, which includes better resource management, stronger law enforcement, and community engagement to foster peace.
During the interview, Bagos also applauded Nigerian governors for their recent decision to embrace the concept of state police, viewing it as a critical step toward enhancing local security.
However, he expressed uncertainty regarding the timeline for constitutional amendments necessary to implement state policing. “The move to adopt state police is commendable and crucial for addressing our unique security challenges,” Bagos noted, “but we don’t know how soon the constitution will be amended to accommodate this significant change.”
Bagos criticized the government for its failure to address the underlying economic motivations behind the violence. He urged both federal and state authorities to implement stricter regulations on mining activities and ensure that local communities benefit from the wealth generated by their natural resources. “There must be transparency and fairness in how these resources are managed and shared,” he added.
The renewed violence in Plateau State has resulted in significant loss of life and property, displacing many residents and creating a humanitarian crisis. Bagos’s insights provide a crucial perspective on the multifaceted nature of the conflict, underscoring the importance of addressing economic drivers alongside traditional peacekeeping efforts.
As the situation continues to develop, it remains to be seen how the government and relevant authorities will respond to these calls for action and whether they will take decisive steps to mitigate the conflict and ensure sustainable peace in the Plateau region.
