Former Plateau Governor Jonah Jang Criticizes IGP, Calls for State Police Reform
Former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Jonah David Jang, has declared that proposals for state police are already compromised by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), highlighting longstanding insecurity and banditry in the region. Jang made these remarks on Thursday, April 2, 2026, during the President's visit to Jos following recent violent attacks in parts of the state.
Persistent Insecurity Across Administrations
Jang noted that Plateau, widely known as the Home of Peace and Tourism, continues to grapple with recurring violence, particularly in rural communities. He emphasized that the security crisis predates the current administration, tracing it back to previous governments, including those of Senator Joshua Dariye, his own tenure, former Governor Simon Lalong, and the current administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
According to him, the attacks have resulted in loss of lives, displacement of families, and destruction of homes and livelihoods, leaving residents in deep distress. It is on record that over 160 communities have been destroyed and forcefully occupied by armed groups, with thousands of displaced persons still unable to return to their ancestral homes due to ongoing insecurity, he stated.
Criticism of Security Handling and Calls for Action
Jang raised concerns over the handling of suspects linked to violent crimes, noting that some cases transferred to Abuja have lost momentum, resulting in little or no accountability. He said this has deepened feelings of injustice among affected communities. He warned that recent attacks in the heart of Jos underscore the growing boldness of perpetrators and the need to shift from reactive responses to proactive, intelligence-driven security strategies.
While acknowledging efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies, he called for more decisive and sustained action, including:
- Increased deployment of security personnel
- Improved intelligence gathering
- Coordinated operations to dismantle criminal networks
He also welcomed plans to recruit forest guards but advised that such recruitment should prioritize locals who are more familiar with the terrain.
State Police Under Scrutiny
On policing reforms, Jang reiterated his longstanding support for the establishment of state police, cautioning against proposals that would place such structures under excessive central control. He argued that the current framework is compromised by the IGP, urging the President to convene a stakeholders' meeting to review it, drawing lessons from countries where decentralized policing has proven effective.
Jang further contended that the violence in Plateau is not merely a farmer-herder conflict, citing the recent attack in Angwan Rukuba, which he said occurred in an urban area without farms or cattle. We believe this is largely about expansionist motives and land grabbing, with political and religious undertones, he explained.
Appeals for Reconstruction and Peace
Jang appealed for the creation of a special intervention fund to rebuild destroyed communities and support the safe return of displaced persons. He emphasized the need to address the root causes of the crisis to achieve lasting peace, noting that the people of Plateau remain resilient and committed to unity and national progress.
Addressing the President, Jang expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of leadership and solidarity with the people during a difficult period. Your visit brings comfort to grieving families, hope to the injured, and reassurance to citizens affected by these senseless acts of violence, he said. He added, We are ready to work collaboratively with the Federal Government to promote peace, stability, and development.
