Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has summoned chairmen of the 17 local government areas and heads of security agencies to an expanded State Security Council meeting, following a surge in violent attacks across the state.
The meeting, held at the Government House in Jos, was convened to review the worsening security situation and develop strategies to curb further violence, according to a statement by the governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere.
The move comes amid reports that at least 50 people have been killed in separate attacks in various communities within the past week.
Speaking after the meeting, the Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, Bassey Ewah, said the gathering provided an opportunity to assess recent incidents and strengthen coordinated responses among security agencies.
“His Excellency summoned this meeting to review the past week and enable us to plan effectively for the days ahead,” Ewah said.
He announced an adjustment to the curfew in affected areas, stating, “The curfew has now been reviewed to run from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and we have been directed to ensure strict compliance.”
Ewah warned that violators of the curfew would face prosecution and reaffirmed that restrictions on the operations of commercial motorcycles and tricycles remain in force.
He also dismissed speculations about impending protests, insisting that the state remains under control.
“The government is not siding with any religious group. All actions taken are aimed at ensuring peace. To the best of my knowledge, there have been no protests or breakdown of law and order,” he said.
The police commissioner urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by adhering to directives, adding that collaboration among security forces remains strong.
“We operate as one team, and I assure citizens that we will continue to work tirelessly to restore and sustain peace,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria in Plateau State, Hamisu Anani, said local councils were adopting tailored approaches to address insecurity in their respective areas.
“Each local government will design strategies based on its peculiar challenges. We are working closely with security agencies, reviewing field reports, and strengthening collaboration to tackle insecurity effectively,” Anani said.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo; the Special Adviser on Security and Commander of Operation Rainbow, General Gagji Shipi; and the Gbong Gwom Jos, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, among others.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to stabilise the state and prevent further loss of lives.
