House of Reps convenes conference to tackle insecurity in Plateau

The House of Representatives has convened a multi-stakeholder dialogue conference towards tackling the current security challenges in Plateau.

The conference, held on Tuesday in Jos, was convened by the house’s Ad-hoc Committee on Security Challenges in the state

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event had the theme “Restoring Stability and Unity: A Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Security in Plateau and Beyond”.

Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House, said that the conference followed the consistent attacks and killings in the state.

Mr Abbas was represented by Rep. John Dafaan, representing Mikang/Shendam/Qua’an Pan Federal Constituency of Plateau.

The speaker said that the house, worried by the spate of insecurity in the state, constituted the committee to unravel the root causes of the persistent security challenges.

Mr Abbas, who also decried that the attacks had led to wanton destruction of properties in the state, insisted the conference was aimed at finding lasting solutions to the lingering security challenges.

“This conference is, therefore, not just an event, it is a national imperative.

“It is an action borne out of our collective resolve as members of the House of Representatives to confront, with honesty and courage, the persistent security challenges that have afflicted Plateau and indeed, several parts of our country.

“As a parliament, we recognise that the challenge before us today is not merely one of restoring order, but of rebuilding trust, addressing injustice, and creating sustainable frameworks for peaceful coexistence.

“Since its inception, the 10th house of representatives has intensified its constitutional mandate to ensure accountability, improved coordination, and optimal performance among our security institutions,” he said.

The speaker said that the National Assembly had strengthened the legal and operational frameworks guiding counter-terrorism efforts towards ensuring that the laws were responsive to evolving threats.

He added that the National Assembly had also strengthened appropriation for security and intelligence, aimed at tackling security challenges in the country.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the committee, Dr Adewale Ahmed, said that conference would enable members to get first-hand information from the stakeholders.

Mr Ahmed said that the move was part of President Bola Tinubu’s drive towards restoring lasting peace to all troubled areas.

He said that the conference would also provide avenue for all stakeholders to ventilate their concerns and profer solutions.

The chairman promised that the House of Representatives would ensure government implemented the recommendations of the committee.

Speaking, Gov. Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Deputy, Josephine Piyo, thanked the lawmakers for convening the conference.

Mrs Mutwang said that the conference would no doubt give critical stakeholders the opportunity to delibrate and suggest ways towards addressing lingering issues.

“This gathering is both significant and strategic, it brings together critical actors whose roles are indispensable in shaping lasting solutions.

“The government institutions, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and community representatives, are key stakeholders in this regards.

“As a government, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done.

“We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders represented here to translate the outcomes of this dialogue into tangible actions,” Mr Mutfwang said.
NAN