Southern, Middle Belt Leaders Reiterate Demand For State Police

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF) has advocated the establishment of State Police nationwide to address the prolonged security challenges facing the nation following the tragic Christmas Eve attacks, which claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands of households in Plateau State.

The leaders made the call during a courtesy visit to Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the New Government House Little Rayfield in Jos, the state capital.

The delegation, led by Pa. Ayo Adebanjo, leader of the Afenifere Group, condemned the terrorist attacks which has led to loss of lives and displacement of people from their ancestral homes to forcefully seize their land.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to resist any attempts by such elements to oppress innocent people and called for decisive action against the perpetrators of the Christmas Eve attacks in Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin-Ladi.

Expressing gratitude for Governor Mutfwang’s victory and its affirmation at the Supreme Court, Pa Adebanjo assured the governor of the Forum’s unwavering support and expressed the hope that such condolence visits would cease.

Responding, Governor Mutfwang appreciated the delegation for their love and solidarity, pledging to fulfill the mandate of building a united and prosperous Plateau without bias. He thanked former Governor Jonah David Jang, Plateau elders, and its people for their determination to ensure a peaceful Nigeria.

The governor vowed to protect the people from deadly invasions, stating, “We will do our best to ensure that our people enjoy the land that God has given them in peace.”

He thanked President Tinubu for his restraint in judicial affairs and swift response to the Christmas Eve attacks.