The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep sadness and condemnation over the recent attacks on defenceless communities in Plateau State, resulting in scores of deaths, including children, and widespread destruction.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur. A. Muhammad-Baba, ACF said the attacks were a stark reminder of the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, particularly in Arewa communities.
The statement read: ‘ACF urges FGN (Federal Government of Nigeria) to declare a state of emergency in vulnerable and banditry-prone communities and establish effective early-warning and early-response strategies.
‘ACF calls for intensified efforts in actionable intelligence gathering, processing, and deployment to identify and prosecute perpetrators.
‘ACF demands full compensation for families of the deceased and relief for those injured. ACF urges FGN and Plateau State Government to empower community leaders, elders, clergy, and civil society organisations to promote community dialogue and conflict resolution.
‘ACF encourages citizens to provide credible information to security agencies on insurgent and criminal activities. ACF calls on members of the National Assembly to hold FGN and National Security Agencies accountable for their actions.
While reiterating its support for Federal Government, the Plateau State Government, and national security agencies in the fight against insecurity, the ACF urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts to address the security challenges facing Nigerian citizens.
