The ongoing massacre and destruction in Plateau State demand urgent action from both the federal and state governments. A recent report revealed that at least 421 people were killed between April 17 and October 24, 2023, indicating a breakdown in governance and a failure of leadership. President Bola Tinubu and security agencies must intensify their efforts to restore peace in Plateau and other troubled areas of Nigeria.

The violence in Plateau State, often referred to as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” has spiraled out of control, with insecurity spreading from rural areas to the capital, Jos. Factors fueling the conflict include land disputes, ethnic and religious tensions, Fulani herdsmen violence, and government partisanship. The long-standing hostility between indigenous ethnic groups and Hausa-Fulani settlers, exacerbated by religious differences, has resulted in continued bloodshed.

The PUNCH reported that 346 people were killed in eight local government areas between April and July 2023, leaving over 18,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) across 14 camps. Another 75 lives were lost between July and October. Mangu Local Government Area alone witnessed over 200 deaths, reflecting a deep-rooted conflict that has plagued the state for decades.

The violence in Plateau is not new. Historical data reveals thousands of lives have been lost in communal clashes since 2001, with outbreaks occurring in areas such as Wase, Langtang, and Shendam. These conflicts have devastated the region, impacting farming, commerce, transportation, and social services, while women and girls face brutal sexual violence and kidnapping.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang must urgently establish a well-funded, non-partisan security force to collaborate with federal agencies, local communities, and youth vigilante groups. The model of joint security operations, incorporating civilian efforts, has proven effective elsewhere and should be applied here.

To end the violence, the root causes of the conflicts must be thoroughly investigated through fresh, unbiased inquiries. Past efforts have been undermined by federal partisan politics, preventing meaningful resolution.

President Tinubu must demonstrate strong leadership by visiting affected communities and taking direct action. Insecurity has reached critical levels across the country, and Plateau State has been a victim for too long. It is time for decisive measures to stop the ongoing bloodshed.