Lawyer Advocates for Accelerated Community Policing After Plateau Massacre
In a strong response to the recent deadly violence in Plateau State, Abuja-based legal practitioner Pelumi Olajengbesi has issued an urgent appeal to the Federal Government and the Nigeria Police Force. He demands the swift implementation of the community policing initiative to curb the recurring brutal attacks plaguing the Middle Belt region.
Condemnation of Plateau State Carnage
Olajengbesi expressed deep condemnation for the attacks that occurred last Sunday in the Angwan Rukuba district of Plateau State, which resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 27 individuals. In a formal statement, he emphasized that the people of Plateau State deserve robust protection from what he described as "blood-suckling marauders." The lawyer stressed that the era of unfulfilled promises from security agencies must come to an immediate halt.
He stated, "Heartfelt condolences to the good people of Plateau State over the killing of over two-dozen residents last Sunday. The latest attack, orchestrated on Palm Sunday, raises suspicion of a religious dimension, which is totally condemnable."
Constitutional Mandate for Security
Highlighting the fundamental duties of governance, Olajengbesi pointed to Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which enshrines the government's primary responsibility to ensure the security and welfare of its citizens. He urged authorities to rise to this cardinal obligation, asserting that protecting lives and property is non-negotiable for national stability and progress.
Community Policing as a Critical Solution
The lawyer argued that expediting the community policing initiative, currently under development by the Nigeria Police Force, would significantly reduce the frequency and severity of attacks not only in Plateau State but across the entire Middle Belt. He explained that such localized security measures foster trust and collaboration between law enforcement and communities, enabling more effective prevention and response to threats.
Olajengbesi added, "Quick implementation of the community policing initiative will, in no small way, drastically reduce the spate of the attacks on the Plateau and the entire Middle Belt. Security is key to economic prosperity, and this cannot be overemphasized."
This call to action underscores the growing public demand for tangible security reforms amid escalating violence in Nigeria's central regions.
