The Plateau State House of Assembly has initiated deliberations on a bill to amend the 1999 Constitution, aiming to establish a State Police Service, as lawmakers demand urgent measures to address escalating insecurity in the region. The move follows a directive from the National Assembly regarding the proposed constitutional amendment, which was relayed to the state assembly by Governor Caleb Mutfwang. The assembly’s majority leader, Joseph Gokum, introduced the bill, with Matthew Kwarpo, representing Mangu South Constituency, seconding the motion. Speaker Naanlong Daniel emphasized the need for coordination between the proposed state police and the Nigeria Police Force to enhance security at the local level.
The assembly also began considering additional legislative measures, including a bill to repeal and re-enact the law establishing the Plateau State College of Education, Gindiri, and a proposal to create the Plateau State Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment. The cancer institute bill was referred to the Health Committee for further review. Meanwhile, lawmakers advanced a bill to establish the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, signaling broader developmental priorities amid the security challenges.
In a separate resolution, the assembly commended President Bola Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang for deploying an Army Brigade in Langtang North and additional military units in the state. However, the focus shifted to urgent security interventions after renewed violence in the region. The assembly passed a motion, sponsored by Barkin Ladi Constituency representative Dickson Chollom and seconded by Langtang North-North’s Abel Nansak, demanding immediate action to address the crisis. The resolution called for the full occupation of the Mobile Police Barracks in Gashish and repairs to infrastructure damaged in recent attacks.
Lawmakers also urged Governor Mutfwang to coordinate with the federal government and Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu to tackle the worsening security situation. The assembly highlighted the need for stronger security presence in affected communities to protect residents and prevent further attacks. This comes after at least nine people were killed in separate attacks across Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and surrounding areas between September 17-18. A separate incident on September 20 claimed the life of a security operative and three civilians in Barkin Ladi.
In response, the state government imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu local government areas, effective September 21, to mitigate emerging threats. The assembly’s demands underscore the growing public concern over the security landscape, with residents facing heightened risks of violence and displacement. The call for humanitarian aid for victims of the attacks reflects the human toll of the crisis.
The proposed State Police Bill has sparked debate over its potential to complement existing security structures. Speaker Daniel stressed the importance of harmonizing state and federal policing efforts, while critics question the feasibility of establishing a parallel force amid resource constraints. The assembly’s focus on multiple legislative priorities highlights the complex interplay between development and security in Plateau State.
As the assembly continues its deliberations, the urgency of the security situation remains a central issue. The calls for federal collaboration and localized interventions underscore the need for a multifaceted approach to address the root causes of violence. With the curfew in place and legislative processes underway, the path forward for Plateau’s communities hinges on coordinated action and sustained investment in both security and development.
The ongoing violence has deepened fears among residents, particularly in areas like Barkin Ladi, where attacks have disrupted daily life and eroded trust in public institutions. The assembly’s resolution to prioritize security measures reflects a broader push for accountability and transparency in addressing the crisis. As the state navigates these challenges, the role of both local and national authorities in ensuring stability remains critical.
The proposed State Police Bill, if enacted, could mark a significant shift in Plateau’s security framework, but its success will depend on clear mandates, adequate funding, and effective oversight. Meanwhile, the assembly’s simultaneous focus on healthcare, education, and tourism initiatives illustrates the state’s broader developmental ambitions, even as it grapples with immediate security threats.
The situation in Plateau State highlights the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s security apparatus, where localized conflicts and resource competition often outpace institutional responses. The assembly’s actions signal a growing demand for proactive governance, as communities seek tangible solutions to recurring violence. With the federal government’s role in security coordination under scrutiny, the outcome of these legislative efforts could set a precedent for other states facing similar crises.
The assembly’s proceedings underscore the delicate balance between legislative reform and emergency response. As lawmakers debate the State Police Bill and other measures, the pressing need for immediate security interventions remains a focal point. The coming weeks will test the state’s ability to reconcile these priorities while addressing the urgent concerns of its citizens.