by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Terrorists’ attacks in some villages of Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State within the week have claimed the lives of over 120 people. These were buried on Thursday, with 20,000 Internally Displace Person and 20 villages affected.
The Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA), led by its National President, Sir Joseph Gwankat (KSM), has called on government to take immediate steps to facilitate the return of all persons that have become refugees in different IDP Camps, by reconstructing their homes and providing security for them as well, otherwise they won’t be able to go back and continue with their farming activities.
Sir Joseph Gwankat disclosed this on Friday, while briefing newsmen in Jos, in reaction to the incident that happened in their area, saying that, “If there should be re-admittance and reintegration of the killer herdsmen into our land again, it should be facilitated by an NGO or any agency of government, and at the cost of government.”
They also urged government to take over full responsibility of educating children below age of 10, children who have lost both parents as a result of these attacks, while arrangements be made for those SS3 students whose WAEC Exams were disrupted ass consequences of these attacks.
According to him, the State Police has demonstrated low capacity and political will to secure minority tribes in Nigeria, and strongly recommends for State Policing in all states and communities in Nigeria.
They urged security agencies to build synergy with their communities to secure their families, while integration of the Vigilantes and Hunters Associations into the Operation Rainbow may assist in information and proper protection of the people.
The MDA National President called on government to create a Special Court to dispense justice between conflicting communities, which will always help in nipping some conflicts before they escalate, and urged NEMA/SEMA to urgently mobilize resources immediately to address the situation of the victims and the hosts of the victims.
