NBA ALLEGES TERRORISTS ATTACK PLATEAU COMMUNITIES DESPITE CURFEW

The Nigerian Bar Association in Plateau State has raised concerns over continued attacks on communities despite a government-imposed curfew in parts of the state.

The four NBA branches in Jos, Pankshin, Bukuru and Shendam made the allegation on Monday during a joint press conference at the NUJ Secretariat in Jos.

The association said recent attacks in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Bokkos Local Government Areas had resulted in further loss of lives and property. It specifically alleged that some attacks occurred during curfew hours, when residents were expected to remain indoors.

The Plateau State Government had imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu on September 21, restricting movement between 6pm and 6am to allow security agencies to stabilise the affected areas.

The NBA said community vigilantes in Kikyau village, Mangu Local Government Area, were killed at their duty post during the restricted hours. It also cited reported attacks in Cantoma and Bin-Per in Mangu and Kasa in Barkin Ladi.

The lawyers expressed concern that continued attacks could further undermine public confidence in security institutions and contribute to displacement and disruption of communities.

The association called on the Federal Government to strengthen security operations, improve border surveillance and provide security agencies with adequate equipment. It also urged authorities to investigate reports of delayed responses to attacks.

The NBA further called for measures to strengthen state-level security arrangements, including constitutional changes that would give state governments greater control over security operations.

It also commended some measures taken by the Plateau State Government, including the revamping of Operation Rainbow, training of neighbourhood watch personnel, provision of security vehicles and establishment of a command and control centre.

The association called for stronger intelligence gathering by communities, better coordination among local authorities and security agencies, and faster prosecution of terrorism-related cases.

The NBA said the continued protection of lives and property should remain a priority as authorities work to address the security situation across Plateau State.