Jonah Jang and Simon Lalong unite to tackle rising insecurity in Plateau State amid deadly Jos attacks

Former governors of Plateau State, Jonah Jang and Simon Lalong, have pledged to set aside differences and collaborate to tackle the increasing insecurity in the state.

Their remarks came during a high-profile visit by President Bola Tinubu to Jos on Thursday.

The visit followed a deadly attack in Anguwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, which left 28 people dead and many others injured just days earlier.

The incident has amplified concerns about Plateau’s security environment as the state approaches the 2027 general elections.

Jang Calls for Unity Against Insecurity

Speaking to journalists, Jang described the recent attack as “one too many” and emphasized the need for a united front among Plateau leaders.

He noted that insecurity has repeatedly hindered the state’s economic and social development.

“I believe Plateau is still the home of peace and tourism,” Jang said.

He recalled that previous governors, including Joshua Dariye and himself, had faced similar security challenges, and that current Governor Caleb Mutfwang is also confronting them.

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Jang warned that some actors might be using the insecurity to destabilize the upcoming elections, but he expressed confidence that, with unity, the state can resist such efforts.

He also urged President Tinubu to hold a special session with Plateau leaders to proactively address the menace.

Lalong Reinforces the Call for Peace

Echoing Jang’s sentiments, Lalong, now a senator representing Plateau South, stressed the importance of leadership collaboration in achieving lasting peace.

He reflected on his tenure as Speaker of the State House of Assembly during Dariye’s governorship and his own years as governor, all marked by serious security challenges.

“But, I believe that when leaders come together, we may find something that will lead to lasting peace in Plateau,” Lalong said, emphasizing that collective action remains the most viable path forward.

Rising Security Threats: A Persistent Challenge

The Anguwan Rukuba attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have plagued Plateau, affecting both lives and livelihoods.

Farmers, traders, and residents are increasingly wary, and economic activities have suffered setbacks due to fear and instability.

Analysts note that insecurity in Plateau is often linked to broader regional tensions, including clashes between communities and criminal networks.

Impact and Consequences

• Loss of lives and injuries in local communities
• Heightened fear and disruption of economic activities
• Threats to social cohesion and tourism potential
• Potential interference with 2027 electoral processes
• Strain on state and federal security resources

What’s Next?

Leaders in Plateau are calling for immediate and coordinated action.

Key steps could include:

• Special sessions between federal and state officials to map security strategies
• Increased deployment of security personnel in vulnerable areas
• Community engagement programs to foster cooperation with law enforcement
• Leveraging intelligence and technology for early warning systems

Summary

Former governors Jonah Jang and Simon Lalong have signaled a rare show of unity, committing to confront Plateau State’s growing security crisis together.

Their collaboration, combined with federal support, aims to restore peace, protect lives, and safeguard the state’s development and electoral integrity.

Key Takeaways

• Jonah Jang and Simon Lalong pledge unity against insecurity in Plateau
• Recent attacks, including Anguwan Rukuba, highlight persistent security threats
• Insecurity has economic, social, and political implications
• Leaders advocate for proactive federal engagement and local cooperation
• Coordinated action is seen as essential to ensuring lasting peace and stability