The Plateau State House of Assembly has summoned the chairmen of all 17 local government areas in the state to provide adequate support to non-conventional security operatives. This move aims to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies in addressing the security challenges affecting various communities across the state.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Dickson Chollom, representing Barkin Ladi Constituency, and seconded by Hon. Eli Bako of Rukuba-Irigwe Constituency during a recent assembly session.
Hon. Chollom drew the attention of the House to the deteriorating security situation in his constituency, highlighting a recent incident where unknown individuals invaded Mazat (Ganandaji) community in Barkin Ladi on July 15, 2025, and destroyed maize farms.
"This attack resulted in significant losses, and it threatens food sufficiency in the area," Chollom stated during his presentation to the House.
In his prayers, the lawmaker urged the House to appeal to the executive arm of government and relevant security agencies "to investigate the act of vandalism, apprehend the perpetrators, and bring them to justice to serve as deterrent to similar acts in the future."
He further emphasized the need for intensified efforts by security agencies to safeguard lives and property in vulnerable communities. The lawmaker also appealed for compensation or support for the affected farmers to cushion the impact on their livelihoods and food security.
"There is the need for Local Government Councils to support vigilante groups as a complementary measure to the security agencies in various communities," Chollom stressed.
After thorough deliberations, the House unanimously adopted all the prayers presented. The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, subsequently directed the Majority Leader to invite all council chairmen for an interactive session aimed at finding practical and lasting solutions to the insecurity issues plaguing the state.
This development comes amid growing concerns about security challenges in various parts of Plateau State, with agricultural communities particularly vulnerable to attacks that threaten both personal safety and food security in the region.
The Assembly's decision reflects a growing recognition that addressing insecurity requires a multi-faceted approach involving both conventional security forces and community-based initiatives such as vigilante groups.
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