NBA Raises The Alarm Over Plateau Killings, Seeks State Police, Security Reforms
Yemi Kosoko in Jos The four branches of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Plateau State have condemned the worsening wave of attacks across the state and called for urgent
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Plateau State has issued an urgent call for constitutional, security, and judicial reforms in response to a surge in attacks across the region. During a press conference in Jos, branches from Jos, Bukuru, Pankshin, and Shendam condemned the recent violence, highlighting the deaths and property loss in areas like Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Bokkos.
Despite security measures in place, the NBA emphasizes that terrorists have launched attacks even during curfew hours, targeting residents and vigilantes.
The association expresses grave concerns over the unchecked violence, displacement of communities, and the alleged occupation of ancestral lands by attackers. NBA leaders commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visit to Plateau and his support for the establishment of state police. However, they urge the federal government to extend this support by amending the constitution to place security under the Concurrent Legislative List, granting state governors more control over local security arrangements.
Further recommendations include enhancing welfare and equipment for security personnel, strengthening border surveillance, and creating a military presence in the Pai River Game Reserve, a location alleged to be a refuge for bandits and terrorists. While acknowledging the Plateau State Government's initiatives, such as Operation Rainbow, training of neighborhood watch members, and procurement of security vehicles, the NBA urges deeper empowerment of Operation Rainbow, stricter enforcement of the state's anti-land grabbing law, and additional support for police formations.
The lawyers appeal to local government authorities, traditional rulers, and communities to enhance intelligence gathering and work cooperatively with security agencies, while warning citizens against the dissemination of unverified information that could escalate tensions. NBA officials express concern over delayed security responses to attacks, calling for professionalism, patriotism, and accountability from security agencies.
They also demand investigations into instances where security forces arrived at attack scenes after the assailants had fled.
Regarding the judiciary, the NBA advocates for expedited trials of terrorism-related offenses, harsher penalties for lawyers who impede criminal proceedings, and greater transparency in prosecuting terrorism suspects and their backers. The NBA pledges to utilize the skills of its members in criminal justice, human rights, and public-interest litigation to aid efforts towards justice for victims, preserving evidence of atrocities, and ensuring accountability for perpetrators.
Ultimately, the NBA believes that lasting peace in Plateau State is attainable through the rule of law, accountability, and the protection of the constitutional right to life.
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