The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of security emergency in states plagued by terrorism, particularly urging an immediate end to the killings in Plateau State.
In a statement released on Sunday, the ACF emphasized that it was crucial for the Federal Government to restore peace and normalcy in terror-stricken states by declaring a state of security emergency in those regions.
The forum also condemned the recent attacks in Plateau State, which occurred on March 28, 2025, when terror gangs killed numerous individuals, including children.
The group expressed deep sadness over the ongoing violence, stating that the death toll, injuries, and property damage caused by the actions of bandits should not be ignored.
Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, stated, “The ACF deeply mourns the dead and unequivocally condemns the attacks. The Forum particularly extends sympathy and condolence to the affected communities, the Government, and the people of Plateau State.”
He added, “We identify with the deep pains of the families of the victims, and we pray for the deceased to rest in peace. We also pray for strength for the surviving victims to bear their losses and for those injured to recover swiftly.”
The ACF reiterated that it is the responsibility of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) to protect the lives and properties of citizens.
“We wish to draw attention, once again, to the worsening security situation in Arewa communities and across Nigeria,” said Muhammad-Baba.
“The people are in great pain, compounded by severe economic challenges. The killing spree in Plateau must stop immediately, and peace must return to the state.”
In its call for action, the ACF urged the FGN to declare a state of security emergency in vulnerable, banditry-prone communities and to implement early-warning and early-response measures involving local community members.
The forum also called for greater intelligence gathering by security agencies to understand and address the root causes of the recent violence.
Furthermore, the ACF urged the government to take immediate action against the perpetrators of the attacks.
“The FGN should investigate, identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for the attacks and their enablers,” the statement said. “Families who have lost loved ones should receive compensation, and those injured should be provided relief.”
The ACF also called on both the Federal Government and Plateau State Government to empower community leaders, including clergy, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations, to promote dialogue and cooperation for conflict resolution and reconciliation.
“Citizens must cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information on insurgents and criminals. Members of the National Assembly must do more to hold the FGN and security agencies accountable and demand concrete actions to address the ongoing terror,” the statement added.
While reaffirming its full support for the Federal Government, Plateau State Government, and all national security agencies in their efforts to combat insecurity, the ACF urged all parties involved to intensify their efforts to safeguard the well-being of Nigerians.
