Plateau group kicks against state of emergency suggestion
A governance advocacy group, One Plateau, One Voice, has expressed its opposition to calls for a state of emergency in response to ongoing violence and killings in Plateau State, which have persisted for over two decades.
The Hausa-Fulani Unity, a group advocating for emergency measures, issued its demands in a video shared on social media platforms on Thursday. They called for the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency, disband Operation Rainbow, and remove the state director of the Department of State Services (DSS).
In a statement released Friday, Dogo Nanzing, convener of One Plateau, One Voice, asserted that a state of emergency is not the solution needed at this time. Instead, the group argues for a comprehensive effort to revitalize the security framework in the state to effectively address the underlying issues of insecurity.
Nanzing emphasized that past emergency measures have not resolved the enduring security challenges and urged that priority should be given to protecting residents, restoring stability in affected areas, and facilitating the return of displaced individuals.
“Over 25 years, our communities have faced violence, displacement, and loss of life,” Nanzing stated. “While many have suffered, calls for a state of emergency only emerge now—after decades of conflict.”
He expressed concerns regarding the proposal to disband Operation Rainbow, noting that the security initiative was established as part of the state’s response to insecurity and should be upheld. Nanzing also highlighted that the DSS and other security agencies have maintained a neutral stance in their efforts to address security issues and have contributed significantly to peacekeeping.
The group criticized the call for disbandment as exaggerated and urged the Hausa-Fulani Unity to reconsider their demands, asserting these actions do not align with the needs of Plateau State.
“The DSS has operated in Plateau since the beginning of these conflicts, and its credibility has never been in question,” Nanzing said.
One Plateau, One Voice contended that recent calls for emergency measures must be reframed within the broader context of long-standing violence and displacement. They stressed that residents who have been affected need protection and pathways to returning home.
The group also called for the restoration of lands and communities from which residents have been displaced and emphasized that this process should be conducted through legal and peaceful channels.
“We demand the return of our lands to their rightful owners,” the statement concluded, urging government officials, security agencies, traditional institutions, and community leaders to collaborate in tackling the current security challenges and preventing further loss of life.
