Reps Committee Vows Action on Insecurity in Plateau State

By Gloria Ikibah

ADVERTISEMENT

The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee mandated to convene a Special Security Conference on the security challenges in Plateau State, has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the persistent security challenges facing Plateau State and other affected regions across the country.

Chairman of the committee, Rep. Hammed Waheed who gave the assurance in Abuja during its inaugural meeting stated that its goal is to develop practical and sustainable solutions to the rising insecurity affecting communities in the North Central state and beyond.

As part of its strategy, the panel announced plans to consult widely with a range of stakeholders. These include security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, youth and women groups, academics, and political figures. The committee emphasized that such inclusive engagement is crucial to crafting meaningful responses to the complex security landscape.

The lawmakers noted that the outcomes of these engagements would guide actionable recommendations aimed at restoring peace and stability to Plateau and similar flashpoints nationwide.

He said: “We are all witnesses to the unfortunate and recurring cycle of violence that has left many communities in sorrow, displaced countless families, destroyed livelihoods, and eroded trust among ethnic and religious groups.

“These tragic developments are not isolated—they reverberate beyond the Plateau, affecting neighbouring states and undermining national stability. It is for this reason that the House of Representatives, at its plenary on the 8th day of May, 2025, in its wisdom and responsiveness to the yearnings of our people, mandated the formation of this Committee.

“Our assignment is clear: to convene a Special Security Conference that will bring together critical stakeholders—security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, youth and women groups, researchers, and political actors—to engage in sincere, in-depth discussions and generate sustainable solutions.

“This is not just another conference. It is an opportunity for truth-telling, healing, dialogue, and decisive recommendations. Our aim is not just to diagnose the problem—much of which we already know—but to chart new pathways towards lasting peace, security, justice, and reconciliation.

“As members of this Committee, we must discharge our duties with integrity, impartiality, and utmost sensitivity. We will be expected to: engage stakeholders across affected communities and beyond; identify root causes and trigger points of the conflicts; design the framework and agenda for the Conference; ensure inclusion, giving voice to all segments of society and produce a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations.

“We must remember: the eyes of the people are on us. This task is not about politics—it is about people. About communities. About peace. About the soul of our nation. Let us work collaboratively and diligently. Let us listen more than we speak. Let us lead with empathy and courage.”