Former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah David Jang, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take more decisive and sustained action to address the lingering security challenges in Plateau State.
Jang made the appeal on April 2, 2026, while speaking on behalf of Plateau elders during the President’s sympathy visit to the state following the recent attacks in Angwan Rukuba and other affected communities.
He appreciated the President for visiting Jos during a difficult period, describing the gesture as a demonstration of leadership and compassion.
“Your visit demonstrates leadership, compassion, and solidarity. It brings comfort to grieving families, hope to the injured, and reassurance to all citizens impacted by these senseless acts of violence,” Jang said.
The former governor highlighted the long-standing nature of the security crisis in Plateau, noting that several administrations have grappled with the challenge without lasting success.
“Plateau State faces ongoing security challenges. These repeated attacks have led to the loss of innocent lives, displacement of families, and destruction of homes and livelihoods,” he stated.
Jang revealed that over 160 communities have been destroyed and forcefully occupied by armed groups, leaving thousands displaced and unable to return to their homes.
He expressed concern over the lack of accountability in some cases, alleging that suspects are sometimes transferred without proper follow-up, thereby weakening justice efforts.
The elder statesman stressed the need for a shift from reactive to proactive security measures, particularly intelligence-driven strategies.
“The recent attack in the heart of Jos highlights the increasing boldness of these perpetrators. It emphasizes the need to move beyond reactive measures and adopt proactive, intelligence-driven strategies,” he said.
Jang also advocated for increased deployment of security personnel and better coordination among security agencies to dismantle criminal networks responsible for the attacks.
On the issue of state policing, he reiterated his long-standing support for its establishment, urging the Federal Government to ensure the structure is not compromised.
“We are grateful that you have decided to revisit the idea of State Police, however, if the structure is placed under the Inspector General of Police… then the concept is already compromised,” he warned.
He further called for the recruitment of local forest guards, establishment of a special intervention fund for rebuilding affected communities, and a comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of the crisis.
Jang reaffirmed the resilience and peaceful nature of Plateau people, pledging their continued support for national unity and collaboration with the Federal Government to achieve lasting peace.
