NBA Alleges Terrorists Attacking Plateau Communities Despite Curfew

The Nigerian Bar Association NBA in Plateau State has raised the alarm over renewed attacks on communities, alleging that terrorists are attacking residents despite a dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed by the state government.

The association made the allegation on Monday through its four branches in Jos, Pankshin, Bukuru and Shendam at a joint press conference in Jos.

The Chairman of the Jos branch, Morgan Dung, who read the statement, said the continued killings in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Bokkos Local Government Areas had raised serious concerns about the protection of lives and property in the state.

The Plateau State Government had imposed a curfew from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu on September 21 following renewed killings and emerging security threats. Security agencies were also directed to enforce a ban on motorcycles in the affected areas.

The NBA said the curfew had not prevented attacks, alleging that armed assailants had continued to target communities observing the restriction.

It specifically cited the killing of community vigilantes at a duty post in Kikyo village, Mangu Local Government Area, during the curfew period. The association also mentioned reported attacks in Cantoma and Bin-Per villages in Mangu, as well as Kasa village in Marit District, Barkin Ladi.

The allegations followed earlier reports of killings despite the curfew. Police confirmed the death of a senior police officer and civilians in separate attacks in Barkin Ladi, while community groups reported additional killings in Mangu during the restricted hours.

The NBA said the continued violence had created a sense of impunity and weakened public confidence in the ability of government to protect citizens.

It called on the Federal Government to strengthen security operations, improve border surveillance and consider constitutional changes that would give state governments greater control over security operations.

The association also urged the Plateau Government to strengthen Operation Rainbow and the Neighbourhood Watch, provide security equipment, implement the state’s Anti-Land Grabbing Law and establish structures needed to improve policing.

It further called for faster responses to attacks, better intelligence coordination and the investigation of reported delays by security personnel in responding to distress calls.

On justice, the NBA demanded time-bound trials of terrorism cases and greater transparency in the prosecution of suspected sponsors of terrorism.

The association urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies while calling on traditional rulers and community leaders to improve local intelligence gathering amid the renewed insecurity.