By Our Correspondent
The Plateau Initiative for Development and Advancement of the Natives (PIDAN), Central Zone, has called for urgent and decisive security measures following the reported killing of more than 20 people in Mangu Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Da Alpha John Dakwak, PIDAN described the August 18, 2026 attack as devastating and unacceptable, saying the repeated attacks across Plateau State have become intolerable.
The group said condolences and official condemnations were no longer enough, stressing that residents need concrete measures to protect lives and property.
PIDAN called on the Plateau State Government to declare a state of emergency on security in affected and vulnerable communities and take immediate steps to safeguard residents.
It also urged authorities to properly equip, train and coordinate local vigilantes to complement conventional security agencies, particularly in remote communities.
The group further called for a review of military deployments, with appropriate responsibilities returned to the police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for civilian policing and community protection.
PIDAN also appealed to the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of the State Police Bill, which it described as a sustainable approach to strengthening community-based policing.
The group urged security agencies to improve intelligence gathering, early warning systems and rapid response mechanisms to prevent attacks rather than responding only after they occur.
PIDAN said the people of Plateau State deserve to live, farm and raise their families without fear of attacks.
The group expressed solidarity with victims, their families and affected communities, while demanding accountability and decisive action.
It said, “This is no longer a time for condemnation alone. It is a time for action.”
