Governor Lalong
By M.T Peter, Jos
Critical stakeholders discussing local solutions to recurring insecurity in Plateau state have advocated community policing as a veritable option in tackling insecurity in the state.
The stakeholders from diverse communities and religious groups in the state spoke at a day peace and security community dialogue meeting with the theme “Domestication of Community Policing in Plateau State: Exploring the Indigenous Options,” held at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.
At a communiqué at the end of the event, they asked that “A more robust synergy and confidence building be encouraged among the established or statutory security outfits” and called for the strengthening of Operation Rainbow, the State-owned security outfit so it could be a visible channel for intelligence gathering and response.
Earlier, the Governor, Simon Lalong frowned at the return of violence after a break saying, “It is with mixed feelings that I address you today at this Stakeholders Peace, Security and Community Dialogue, because this in one type of stakeholders meeting that we were almost relegating to the dustbin of history considering how hard we have toiled to ensure the return of peace to our State since our coming into office.”
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He reminded the people that “The dialogue seeks to explore ways towards undertaking a holistic overview of the prevailing security challenges in the State, with specific reference to a community policing model that can better respond to public safety and security” and called for frank discussions.
“At today’s dialogue therefore, I expect that we shall engage in frank, open and solution-driven interaction that will enable us key into the Community Policing Model in dealing with our security situation more effectively.
“Since virtually every relevant stakeholder is here today, I expect that the discussions will be honest, frank and capable of leading us to a safer Plateau State that thrives on respect for human lives, good neigbourliness, tolerance, justice and forgiveness,” the Governor urged.
Terrorists attacks in Plateau in the last three weeks sparked concern in the national assembly recently where the senate minority leader, Eyinnaya Abaribe, called for resignation of President Muhammadu Buhari.
