By John Audu
President Bola Tinubu is set to convene with service chiefs to address the escalating violence in Plateau, Benue, and other regions following his return from a two-week visit to Paris and London. The meeting aims to review the security situation and implement measures to curb the rising killings, which have claimed over 120 lives since April 2nd.
A top official confirmed that the President, who landed in Abuja on Monday night, has been receiving security briefings and issuing directives while abroad. The upcoming meeting will involve a comprehensive review of the security landscape.
The Presidency has pointed fingers at state governors, accusing them of underfunding security outfits despite receiving substantial security votes. Special Adviser Daniel Bwala criticized the paltry allocations given to security agencies compared to the large security votes, questioning the effective utilization of funds.
Bwala also challenged the clamor for state police, suggesting it masks weak local governance. He argued that existing security frameworks, if properly funded and utilized, could effectively address insecurity. He proposed that governors should invest in infrastructure, surveillance equipment, and local vigilante groups to bolster security.
Meanwhile, a call by former Chief of Army Staff Theophilus Danjuma for Nigerians to defend themselves against attacks has sparked controversy. While some, particularly in Plateau and Taraba, support self-defense due to perceived government inaction, others, like Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi, warn against the potential for anarchy.
Governor Namadi advocates for dialogue and community engagement, citing success in resolving farmer-herder conflicts in Jigawa. Similarly, the Nasarawa State Government believes its efforts have made self-defense unnecessary.
Retired generals offer varying perspectives. Some support community policing and structured neighborhood watch units comprising veterans. Others propose decentralizing security, empowering geopolitical zones to create their own security outfits.
The ongoing violence has triggered protests, notably in Jos, where residents demand government intervention to stop the killings. Governor Mutfwang has assured that those responsible will face justice.
The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom has urged President Tinubu to take decisive action to end the nationwide insecurity, while civil society groups call for collective action against the killings.
