Insecurity: Archbishop Martins demands urgent action

Nigeria’s political leadership must move beyond incremental responses and confront the nation’s deepening security and economic crises with urgency and clarity, the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Adewale Martins, said on Thursday. Delivering a pointed message at the annual Chrism Mass held at the Holy Cross Cathedral Lagos, Martins acknowledged government efforts but stressed that the scale and persistence of hardship across the country demand faster, more decisive intervention to restore public confidence and stability.

The Chrism Mass, a cornerstone of the Catholic liturgical calendar, brought together hundreds of priests and worshippers in a solemn yet reflective gathering marking the institution of the priesthood and the Eucharist. Central to the ceremony was the blessing of sacred oils and the renewal of priestly vows—rituals that underscore service, sacrifice and spiritual accountability. Martins used the occasion to draw a parallel between national leadership and spiritual stewardship, urging those in authority to prioritise the protection of lives and the alleviation of economic distress. He further warned clergy against the subtle distractions of digital culture, cautioning that while social media offers a platform for evangelisation, it must not erode discipline or shift focus from the Church’s core mission.

In a complementary homily, Rev. Fr. Paul Akin-Otiko called for renewed spiritual depth among clergy, emphasising that the consecrated oils symbolise divine healing and service rather than ritual formality. He urged priests to remain selfless and resist any temptation to commercialise their calling, stressing that their duty lies in the care of souls and the moral guidance of society. The ceremony also featured tributes led by Monsignor John Aniagwu in honour of Anthony Olubunmi Okogie, whose legacy of leadership continues to shape the Lagos Archdiocese. As hymns of thanksgiving closed the service, the message resonated beyond the cathedral walls: in both governance and faith, integrity, responsibility and urgency remain indispensable.

2027: ADC establishes special representative-networks in key global capitals

 

 

As the 2027 general election inches closer, The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced the establishment of an ADC Special Representatives Network in key foreign capitals as part of a new initiative to strengthen the party’s international engagement and promote democratic accountability in Nigeria.
The initiative, according a statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi on Saturday, comes in response to the growing pattern of undemocratic practices and attacks on opposition members and leaders that have persisted since July 2025, including attempts to destabilize opposition parties, undermine legitimate party leadership structures, and restrict democratic political participation.
According to the party, “the primary objective of the initiative is to ensure that international partners and democratic institutions receive balanced and credible information about Nigeria’s political environment, rather than relying solely on official government narratives”.
The party announced that “the Special Representatives Network is designed to create structured channels of communication between the ADC and influential international stakeholders, particularly in countries and institutions that prioritize democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
“Under the initiative, the party will appoint credible representatives as envoys in strategically selected global capitals. These representatives will serve as official points of contact between the ADC and international actors including foreign governments, parliamentary committees, international media organizations, democracy support institutions, and Nigerian diaspora communities”.
The statement went further to state that “through these engagements, the representatives will provide regular briefings on key issues relating to Nigeria’s political environment, including political developments in the country, human rights concerns, democratic governance, electoral integrity, and allegations of repression against opposition actors. They will also communicate the ADC’s policy positions and reform proposals to international stakeholders”.
The ADC stated that by institutionalizing these channels of engagement, the party seeks to strengthen its credibility as a responsible democratic actor while also reinforcing its position as a viable governing alternative committed to democratic norms and constitutional governance.
Based on their global influence, commitment to democratic governance, and the presence of significant Nigerian diaspora communities, the party has identified Washington, DC; London; Brussels; Berlin; Ottawa; Paris; Pretoria; Addis Ababa; Nairobi; Accra; Geneva; and New York for its international strategic engagements.
As part of the initiative, the party will also establish a National Documentation Initiative, to systematically collect and document incidents affecting political participation across Nigeria. Under this system, state party structures will gather information on incidents including threats, harassment, violent attacks, arbitrary arrests, and disruptions of political activities.
ADC emphasized that the initiative represents a strategic step toward strengthening its international presence, improving the flow of credible information about political developments in Nigeria, and reinforcing its commitment to democratic governance, political accountability, and the protection of opposition rights. Authority.

TCN refutes inaccurate capacity figures cited in PHEDC Social Media post

 

 

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) said it has noted with concern a social media post published on Thursday by the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), stating that TCN’s transmission wheeling capacity stands at 7,300MW, with an operational capacity of between 4,000MW and 5,000MW.

A statement on Friday by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager (GM), Public Affairs of TCN said the figures were “intentionally inaccurate information.”

Said the statement, “ First, it’s important to note that the daily output on the national grid is a function of what the DisCos nominate, what the GenCos declare they can generate, and what TCN declares it can wheel. There is a penalty against any of these three players if they fail to meet what they declared.

“The question is: “Do the DisCos nominate beyond 4,000MW to 5,000MW?” This is a question for Port Harcourt DisCo to verify before making distracting publications. Every day–ahead, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) looks at what each player declares and tries to strike a balance, which is what is then generated, transmitted, and distributed.”

 

On TCN’s Verified Transmission Wheeling Capacity, Mbah said: “The fact is that 8,700MW is the simulated capacity by the Independent System Operator (ISO) when it was still part of TCN. Through sustained, capital-intensive infrastructure investments, including transformer installations, substation construction, and transmission line reconductoring, among others, TCN has progressively expanded its wheeling capacity to a verified 8,700MW.  This figure is a matter of public record and reflects TCN’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s grid infrastructure. 7,300MW cited by PHEDC is outdated and no longer representative of TCN’s current capacity. In fact, with several completed and ongoing projects since the last simulation, a new simulation would certainly show increased capacity.

 

“Operational Milestones Contradict the 4,000–5,000MW Claim

 

“Recent, verifiable sector-wide records directly contradict the assertion that TCN can only transmit between 4,000MW and 5,000MW operationally. The Nigerian power sector has, in the first quarter of 2025 alone, achieved three successive peak generation milestones, all of which were successfully transmitted by TCN:

 

  • March 4, 2025: Peak generation of 5,801.84MW at 49.69Hz frequency, with a maximum daily energy dispatch of 128,370.75MWh — the highest peak generation and maximum daily energy ever attained in Nigeria’s power sector history. TCN successfully transmitted this entire output to Distribution Companies (DisCos) during peak hours.
  • March 2, 2025: Peak generation of 5,713.60MW and maximum daily energy of 125,542.06MWh, efficiently transmitted by TCN to all distribution load centres.
  • February 14, 2025: Peak generation of 5,543.20MW and maximum daily energy of 125,159.48MWh, also successfully wheeled to DisCos by TCN.

 

“These figures,” she further said “independently documented and publicly verifiable, speak for themselves.

 

“A Call for Accuracy in Power Sector CommunicationTCN acknowledges that Nigeria’s electricity value chain from gas supply through generation, transmission, and distribution to end users is deeply interconnected, and that each stakeholder has a responsibility to communicate accurately about their role alone and where they need to communicate about others, must take steps to verify information before releasing to the public.

 

“Misinformation, however unintentional, undermines public trust, misrepresents sector progress, and may negatively influence policy conversations and investment decisions.

 

“TCN, therefore, calls on all stakeholders to verify information not domiciled with them before publication to ensure their communications accurately reflect the current state of grid infrastructure. TCN remains committed to transparency, collaboration, and the continued growth of Nigeria’s power sector.

 

“Enquiries or requests for clarification on TCN’s current wheeling capacity, infrastructure data, or operational records may be directed to the TCN Public Affairs Division,” the GM stated.

 

Easter: IGP deploys Special Forces, 250 tactical personnel to secure Benue

 

 

 

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu has deployed 14 units of specialised forces and 250 tactical personnel to reinforce the Benue Police Command.

 

DSP Edet Udeme, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, made the disclosure in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday in Makurdi.

Udeme explained that the 14 units were drawn from 16 Police Mobile Force (PMF) squadrons, while the 250 personnel were from specialised tactical teams.

The PPRO said the strategic deployment was aimed at strengthening ongoing security operations and ensuring the protection of lives and property across the state during the festive period.

 

She said the deployed personnel have been integrated with the command’s tactical teams and other security agencies, with a focus on dominating the hinterlands, vulnerable communities, and key public spaces.

 

She stated that the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, has commended the IGP for the timely reinforcement.

Emenari also assured residents of the Command’s readiness to maintain law and order before, during, and after the Easter festivities.

 

The CP urged citizens to remain vigilant and law-abiding and to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and useful information.

 

The CP further encouraged members of the public to report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation. Newspot.

2027: Falana, Adams predict one-candidate presidential poll

 

 

Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, on Thursday, warned that Nigeria could end up having only one presidential candidate in the 2027 election if the judiciary continues to interfere in political party affairs.

 

They spoke at the fifth Comrade Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture held at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

 

The event had in attendance the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero; activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore; and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Olumide Fusika.

It was hosted by the President of the Oluyinka Odumakin Foundation, Dr Joe Odumakin, and was also attended by the Executive Director of the International Press Centre, Mr Lanre Arogundade; other activists, including Agba Jalingo and Richard Akinola.

 

Delivering the memorial lecture, Falana asserted that court orders and conflicting judgments were being used to destabilise political parties and could lead to a situation where only one political party would present a presidential candidate in the 2027 election.

 

He spoke against the backdrop of Wednesday’s pronouncement of the Independent National Electoral Commission that it would no longer recognise the factions of the African Democratic Congress led by David Mark or Rafiu Bala.

 

The INEC based its decision on a Court of Appeal judgment, which directed the commission to maintain the status quo pending the determination of a suit challenging the legality of David Mark’s leadership of the opposition party.

 

Speaking, Falana criticised the judiciary for interfering in the internal affairs of political parties despite provisions of the Electoral Act prohibiting such interference.

 

Falana said, “Through the manipulation of Nigerian courts and senior lawyers, you may have only one candidate contesting the presidential election in this country.

 

If that happens, Nigeria may not even need to spend money on a presidential election.”

 

Falana warned that actions capable of undermining democracy could provoke unrest if Nigerians felt they no longer had a genuine electoral choice.

 

He urged civil society groups, labour unions and political activists to organise and defend democratic values, warning that unorganised protests could lead to anarchy rather than meaningful change.

 

“We must stop agonising and start organising in the interest of our people and democracy,” he said.

 

Speaking in the same vein, Adams warned that Nigeria was gradually drifting towards a one-party system, accusing those in power of using the judiciary to suppress opposition parties and the will of the people.

 

According to him, Nigeria operated more like a federal system in the First Republic when regions controlled the police, courts and local governments, but the 1999 Constitution returned the country to a unitary system with more items on the Exclusive Legislative List.

 

He said, “In 1963, there were about 45 items on the Exclusive List, but today we have about 68 items. Practically everything is controlled by Abuja. What we have now is more of a unitary system than a federal system.”

 

Falana explained that some powers had been taken from the Federal Government through court cases filed by states, particularly on issues such as local government administration, Value Added Tax, and control of land.

 

He noted that despite the agitation for restructuring, many state governments had failed to utilise the powers already granted to them, especially in areas like electricity generation, railways and prisons, which were moved from the Exclusive List.

 

He said, “Some of those who shout restructuring don’t believe in it. Electricity, railways and prisons were removed from the Exclusive List, but how many states have generated electricity, built rail lines or established prisons? None.”

 

Speaking on the debate over state police, Falana warned that the system could be abused by state governors to suppress political opponents, citing abuses recorded during the First Republic when regional governments controlled the police.

 

He said the Police Council, which includes the President, Inspector-General of Police, Chairman of the Police Service Commission and state governors, was supposed to manage the Federal Police collectively, but the body hardly met, leaving policing effectively in the hands of the President.

 

Falana also criticised the political class for cornering the country’s resources, especially oil blocks and solid minerals, alleging that a few individuals had become extremely wealthy through government allocations of oil blocks and mining licences.

 

He said illegal mining and smuggling of minerals were also contributing to insecurity in some parts of the country, as unemployed youths were being recruited into illegal mining operations and criminal activities.

 

Fusika (SAN) warned that the nation was approaching a dangerous end, especially with pervasive insecurity.

 

He, however, rallied all Nigerians to unite to tackle the issues facing the country.

 

Human rights activist Akinola decried what he described as the “incestuous relationship” between the executive and the judiciary.

 

“Politicians have hijacked the judiciary, and it is dangerous,” he said.

 

Speaking, NLC President Ajaero argued that Nigeria has been hijacked by a few persons benefitting from the present centralised structure.

 

He spoke in favour of restructuring, devolution of powers, localising resources to decouple the present centralised structure and state police.

 

On calls for revolution, Ajaero warned that such a move must be organised so that it does not lead to anarchy.

 

In his remarks, Sowore opined that the President Bola Tinubu administration was driving Nigerians to push for a revolution.

 

Sowore said, “These are revolutionary times if we take advantage of them. I predicted, when President Bola Tinubu came to power, that he was the one who would lead us to a revolution in Nigeria. It is up to the Nigerian people to take charge of the moment and the opportunity he has provided for the revolution.

 

“Tinubu is on a highway driving you to a revolution, and you still have not got the message. But he will make it happen because this country cannot escape a revolution.

 

“Tinubu’s most important duty as President is to drive this country in a revolutionary direction where he, the rest of his colleagues, ministers, and friends will be strangers to the system that they think they brought about, where they think everybody is foolish and in need of handouts. Franktalknow.

Nkeiruka Onyejeocha resigns as Minister of State for Labour

 

 

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has formally resigned from her position, describing the end of her tenure as the closing of “a significant chapter” in her public service career.

 

In a statement on her social media on Friday, Onyejeocha thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve under his administration, praising his “trust, support, and visionary leadership.”

 

 

“Working under your Renewed Hope Agenda has been an honor and privilege. Thank you for believing in my capacity to contribute to nation-building,” she said.

 

Onyejeocha also expressed appreciation to the leadership and staff of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, highlighting their role in advancing policies that protect workers’ rights, promote workplace safety, and expand employment opportunities.

 

She acknowledged her constituents in Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, noting that their support and prayers had been a source of strength throughout her tenure.

“Serving Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. As one chapter closes, another opens. I remain committed to service, to progress, and to building the Nigeria we all deserve,” Onyejeocha stated. Franktalknow,

Former INEC director faults Commission’s decision on ADC leadership 

 

 

 

Oluwole Osaze Uzzi, former INEC Director of Voter Education and Publicity, has disagreed with Joash Amiputan, National Chairman of INEC, on the decision of the Commission to derecognise the leaderships of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

 

“In INEC’s extrapolation of the Court of Appeal’s order, I have reservations: the court did not instruct INEC to withdraw recognition from either faction.

 

:It simply stated that all parties to the action should refrain from doing anything that would render the likely judgment nugatory,” Oluwole Osaze Uzzi, who is also a lawyer, said on Arise TV on Friday, April 3, 2026.

“If I were advising the ADC, I would suggest they proceed with their plans, provided that doing so does not impinge on the majesty of the courts or their ability to deliver justice in the case,” Oluwole Osaze Uzzi stated. Theconclaveng

 

 

 

Insecurity: Defend yourselves, Northern CAN tells Christians

 

 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on Christians in the Northern part of the country to take proactive steps to defend themselves against persistent attacks by terrorists and other armed groups.

 

The declaration followed the Palm Sunday attack on Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State which left over 27 people dead and several others injured.

 

Chairman of CAN in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Reverend Joseph Hayab, said despite the wave of killings and persistent security challenges, the Christian community would not give in to fear.

 

According to Hayab: “These killers are not spirits. These killers are human beings. They may have got some upper hand but when our people really organise themselves, a time will come when you see that the person who is chasing you, you are chasing him back.

 

“Unless and until all of us start organising ourselves to chase those who have been chasing us, they will torment us for the next 200 years. If we are no longer afraid of our attackers, what have we done? Have we been able to defend ourselves? Must we say we are defending ourselves since we are not afraid of the attackers?

 

“Since 2009 till today, they have been tormenting us every time it is Easter and Christmas; they will deny us the joy of celebrating. They (terrorists) are telling us that they will attack us. What kind of a thing is that? So, should we stop everything and go into hiding? No, every church leader should tell his members that enough is enough of this rubbish.”

 

When asked if CAN would advise members to carry arms, Hayab stated: “If we start telling everything we know, we will just help the enemy of the church to triumph. But what we are simply saying is that we are not happy with the killings, but we will not allow the killers to intimidate us and stop us from celebrating Easter the way it should be celebrated.

 

“We are angry with the killings; we are angry with the inability of government and security services to stop the killings, but we are also calling on Christians not to be deterred because this whole war is psychological. By the time we give in and stop doing what we’re supposed to do spiritually, they have succeeded in what they want to do.

 

“Do you know why they are attacking places of worship? It is so that we will stop going to places of worship, and we’ll stop doing what we are doing. So, as leaders, if we don’t tell our people and encourage them to stand firm, we’re giving in to a cheap blackmailer.”

 

Hayab said the wave of killings and violence, particularly around the Easter period, was deeply troubling but would not break the resolve of the Christian community.

 

He lamented that the continued violence had become overwhelming, especially as believers prepare for Easter celebrations.

 

He noted that many Nigerians were beginning to lose faith in official assurances, describing the situation as a serious test for the government.

 

Security analysts differ on self-defence

 

A retired military officer, Brigadier General John Sura, advocated lawful self-defence and stronger community-based security measures as part of efforts to curb the attacks.

 

Sura, a former governorship aspirant in Plateau State, said citizens should be encouraged to take minimal steps within the law to protect themselves rather than remain vulnerable during attacks.

 

He said, “Self-defence allows you to carry a Dane gun, and then you have a licence to carry that. If you go to the police, they can give you that. You can also carry very sharp objects that you keep to defend yourself in case of any attacks.

 

“I have followed the discussions of the DG, SSS. In the confines of the law, you are allowed to carry something to defend yourself. Like the incident that happened in Plateau, those terrorists were pulling people into their houses and slaughtering them because they had nothing to defend themselves.

 

“The last kick of a horse does not stop it from dying, but you should be able to inflict injury on the person before he kills you, not to be killed like an animal. Therefore, everyone should be encouraged to put in whatever is minimal to defend themselves when such things happen.”

 

He also called on state governments to strengthen local security structures, including vigilance groups and community outfits, to serve as a second line of defence.

 

Sura cited the need for improved deployment of local security initiatives such as Operation Rainbow in the state, noting that better coordination and presence could help prevent attacks.

 

“The police and the military cannot be everywhere. We must augment them with local structures and timely intelligence,” he added.

 

Sura identified intelligence failure and poor collaboration between communities and security agencies as major factors behind the recurring attacks, urging residents to share timely information with authorities.

 

He called on governors to activate and properly deploy state-backed security outfits, while emphasising that security is a shared responsibility across federal, state and local levels.

 

But Lieutenant Colonel Abdulwahab Ademola (retd.) advised against arming civilians, arguing that this could create further risks and worsen insecurity.

 

Instead, Ademola said the government should focus on equipping communities with dual-purpose technologies that could serve both civilian and security needs.

 

He said communities must be strengthened through the use of simple technology, particularly early warning systems, as the first line of defence against terror attacks.

 

Ademola explained that residents could be trained to use basic tools to detect and report threats in real time, noting that attackers often mobilise openly without being intercepted.

 

“Security agencies cannot be everywhere, but communities can be supported with structured local policing backed by early warning mechanisms,” he said.

 

Beyond technology, he called for regular training and simulation drills within communities to prepare residents for emergencies.

 

He said communities should be taught how to respond during attacks, including how to disperse quickly, protect vulnerable groups, and avoid gathering in large numbers, which often increases casualties.

 

PFN demands end to killings

 

Also, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria called for a thorough investigation and a rethink of Nigeria’s security approach.

 

The National Secretary of PFN, David Bakare, who spoke in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, described the resurgence of insecurity as “deeply troubling”, warning that the situation appears to be worsening despite earlier gains made by security agencies.

 

According to him, the ability of attackers to strike within Jos city, rather than in outlying areas, raises serious concerns about the current security architecture and intelligence system.

 

“We were already celebrating as if we had overcome the worst,” he said, noting that the latest development was suggestive of a dangerous relapse.

 

“There is a need to carefully investigate what exactly happened and what is responsible for this return of insecurity,” Bakare added.

 

He stressed that beyond routine condemnations and deployment of troops, authorities must undertake a comprehensive review to understand the root causes of the renewed violence.

 

Bakare questioned whether the resurgence could be linked to factors such as increased funding for insurgents, political dynamics, or gaps within the nation’s security framework.

 

“It is not just about sending more troops or opening military camps everywhere. There must be a rethink, a reinvestigation of what exactly is happening before we begin to respond,” he said.

 

The PFN scribe urged the Federal Government and security agencies to adopt a holistic strategy that was beyond reactive measures, insisting that identifying the underlying causes would lead to more effective and lasting solutions.

 

He also highlighted the vulnerability of Christian communities during major religious observances, especially as the Easter season approaches.

 

Efforts to contact the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon, were unsuccessful as his phone was unreachable at the time of filing this report.

 

But the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, in a statement on Wednesday, ordered massive deployment of security assets to Jos to restore calm and ensure the arrest of those responsible.

 

The statement, signed by Okon, added that in response to the situation, the IG deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Umar Nadada, to the state to assess the security situation, coordinate ongoing operations, and strengthen the existing security architecture.

 

@PUNCH, excluding the headline

Mother, 4 daughters abducted in fresh Kaduna attack

 

Less than 24 hours after the abduction of seven family members and three other residents in Unguwar Sabon-Titi, Katari, Kaduna State, suspected bandits have launched another attack, kidnapping members of a different family in Kurmin-Uwa, near Janjala community in Kagarko Local Government Area.
A resident of Kagarko, Ibrahim Shehu, who confirmed said the attack occurred around 10:23 p.m. on Friday.
According to him, the assailants stormed the community and headed straight for a targeted house, where they abducted seven persons.
The victims, identified as a mother and her children, include Ladi Malachy, Patience Malachy, Promise Malachy, Inama Malachy, Peter Malachy, and Aboyi Malachy.
A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, also confirmed the attack.
He said he promptly alerted security operatives after receiving distress calls about the invasion, noting that Kurmin-Uwa is about two kilometers from Kagarko town.
“Immediately I got information that bandits had entered the village, I notified security personnel, but I am unsure if they responded,” he said.
He added that communication has not yet been established with the abductors and expressed concern over the persistent wave of attacks affecting communities in Kagarko LGA.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Hassan Mansur, did not respond to calls or text messages seeking comments on the incident. Authority.

Yilwatda: Plateau must never bleed again

 

 

Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has commended the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Plateau State to commiserate with the government and people of the state over the recent horrific and senseless killings of innocent residents of Angwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area.

The President’s visit is a profound demonstration of responsive leadership, empathy and national solidarity at a time when the people of Plateau are grieving the painful and unjust loss of their loved ones to yet another round of barbaric violence.

President Tinubu was received in Plateau State by the National Chairman, the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, former governors,  political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, elders, women and youth representatives, as well as stakeholders from across all segments of society in the state.Politics

 

Speaking during the visit, the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, condemned the killings in the strongest and most unequivocal terms, describing the attack as inhuman, cowardly, reprehensible, and a direct assault on the peace, unity, and soul of Plateau State.

According to Professor Yilwatda, the continued shedding of innocent blood in Plateau is not only unacceptable but a national tragedy that must no longer be treated with routine outrage and temporary responses.

 

In a statement signed by Abimbola Tooki, Special Adviser to the National Chairman on Media and Communications stategy, Yilwatda stressed that the time has come for deliberate, coordinated and result-oriented efforts by all relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that such dastardly and unconscionable acts never happen again in Plateau State or anywhere else in the country.

Professor Yilwatda called on leaders of communities across Plateau State to become more vigilant, responsive, and proactive in identifying and reporting suspicious movements and security threats within their domains.

He noted that the recurring pattern of killings strongly suggests that many of those behind these heinous acts are not ghosts or invisible invaders, but criminal elements and miscreants living within or around the communities, exploiting local vulnerabilities to unleash mayhem on innocent citizens.

 

In his words, “these evil perpetrators must no longer be shielded by silence, fear, complicity or communal indifference”.

He insisted that they must be identified, exposed, apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law.

 

The APC National Chairman further charged security agencies to urgently rethink and upgrade their security architecture and operational methods in tackling the persistent violence in Plateau State.

 

He emphasised that security agencies cannot continue to deploy outdated tactics against increasingly adaptive and ruthless criminal networks and expect a different outcome.

 

Professor Yilwatda, therefore, advocated the deployment of modern surveillance and intelligence-driven technology, including Artificial Intelligence-powered cameras, drones, advanced tracking systems, and real-time intelligence gathering mechanisms, to detect, monitor, and neutralize criminal elements before they strike.

 

He said the era demands smarter, faster, and more sophisticated security responses, adding that the protection of lives and property must now be driven not only by manpower, but also by technology, intelligence, precision, and accountability.

He stated clearly that Plateau cannot continue to mourn in cycles, while the enemies of peace roam freely and repeatedly unleash terror on innocent citizens.

 

Professor Yilwatda also drew attention to the grave economic implications of insecurity in Plateau State, lamenting that the state, which is richly blessed with breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant tourism assets, and enormous economic potential, has continued to suffer avoidable setbacks due to persistent violence.

 

He noted that Plateau has long been celebrated as a peaceful and attractive destination with some of Nigeria’s most vibrant tourism centres, cultural attractions, and agricultural potential, but all of these opportunities remain vulnerable and stunted in the face of recurring attacks.

According to him, no economy can thrive where fear reigns, no investment can flourish where blood is spilled, and no society can truly prosper where innocent citizens live under the shadow of insecurity.

 

He warned that without adequate protection of lives and communities, the social and economic future of the state could be severely paralysed, thereby depriving the people, especially young people, of prosperity, stability, and hope.

 

Professor Yilwatda therefore called for a whole-of-society approach to ending the violence in Plateau, urging traditional institutions, religious leaders, political actors, youth groups, women’s groups, security operatives, and community stakeholders to work together in honesty and patriotism to restore peace and stability.Politics

 

During the visit, other leaders from across Plateau State also spoke passionately on the disturbing security situation in the state and the urgent need for decisive and sustained intervention to halt the bloodshed and restore confidence among the people.

 

As part of the visit, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, leaders and other key stakeholders, also paid a solemn and deeply emotional visit to the families of the affected victims of the Angwan Rukuba attack.

The visit to the bereaved families was a moving moment of compassion and national mourning, as the President shared in their pain and offered words of comfort, reassurance, and solidarity in the face of unimaginable loss.

 

The APC notes that this visit by President Tinubu is not merely symbolic; it is a powerful signal that the Federal Government stands firmly with the people of Plateau State and remains committed to confronting the menace of violent attacks with renewed urgency and seriousness.

It is expected that the President will, in the days ahead, continue broader engagements with leaders of Plateau communities and critical stakeholders toward evolving practical, inclusive, and lasting solutions that will guarantee sustainable peace, justice, reconciliation, and security for the people of the state.

 

The APC reiterates that the lives of Plateau citizens are sacred and non-negotiable, and that those who delight in sowing death, fear, and division among peaceful communities must be hunted down and brought to justice without delay.

 

The blood of innocent men, women, and children cries out for justice, and the nation must answer with resolve.

 

Plateau deserves peace.

Plateau deserves healing.

Plateau deserves protection.

 

 

And above all, Plateau must never be allowed to bleed like this again.

Freedom