Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, convened an urgent security council meeting in Lafia, the state’s capital.
The meeting, held on Monday, aimed to address the recent surge in kidnappings and the alarming activities of ethnic militia groups across various local government areas.
Governor Sule expressed deep concern over the escalating security issues, particularly kidnappings, and the activities of groups like the Bassa militia. He highlighted areas such as Keffi, Doma, Lafia, Awe, Obi, Keana, Karu, and Nasarawa as hotspots for such criminal activities. He stated the need to tackle disputes between communities, citing a recent incident in the Udege area.
Having engaged in discussions with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and top security chiefs in Abuja, Governor Sule disclosed one notable proposal discussed during the meeting such as the potential banning of single ethnic group vigilante groups operating in the state.
This includes considering the dissolution of the Bassa Vigilante Group and other similar entities.
Governor Sule outlined plans to grant a grace period for members of such vigilante groups to integrate into existing community vigilante structures. He stressed the importance of maintaining peace and adherence to government policies.
The Governor also acknowledged the efforts of security agencies in mitigating security challenges, expressing gratitude for their dedication.
He pledged to address recent conflicts between farmers and herders, such as the clashes between the Eggon and Tiv communities in Kadarko.
