Plateau tightens security as Mutfwang hosts emergency council meeting

Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau state governor on Wednesday convened an expanded State Security Council meeting with heads of security agencies and chairmen of the 17 Local Government Areas, as part of renewed efforts to strengthen peaceful co-existence and security across the state.

The high-level meeting, held at the Government House in Jos, focused on reviewing the security situation over the past week and developing proactive strategies to prevent further breaches and ensure sustainable peace.

Speaking after the meeting, Bassey Ewah, the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command said the session provided an opportunity to assess recent developments and outline a clear direction for coordinated security operations.

According to him, “His Excellency summoned this meeting to review the past week and enable us plan effectively for the days ahead. The curfew has now been adjusted to run from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and we have been directed to ensure strict compliance”.

He reiterated that existing restrictions remain in force, including the ban on commercial motorcycle operations and the regulation of tricycle movements, noting that security agencies are fully committed to maintaining law and order.

On enforcement, the Police Commissioner warned that violators of the curfew would face legal consequences. “Anyone arrested for violating the curfew will be prosecuted. Laws are meant to be obeyed; if you break them, you must face the consequences,” he stated.

Addressing concerns over alleged protests circulating on social media, Ewah dismissed the claims, emphasizing that the situation remains calm.

“The government is not siding any faith. All decisions are aimed at ensuring peace. To the best of my knowledge, there have been no protests and no breakdown of law and order,” he added.

He urged residents to support ongoing security efforts by complying with directives, stressing that unity among security agencies remains strong. “We operate as one team, and I assure citizens that we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure peace,” he said.

Also speaking, Mohammed  Anani, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Plateau State, described the meeting as critical in addressing recurring security challenges, particularly within the Jos metropolis.

He noted that local government councils are adopting tailored strategies to respond to security threats based on their unique circumstances.

“Each local government will develop strategies based on its peculiarities. We are working closely with security chiefs, reviewing reports from the field, and strengthening collaboration to effectively tackle insecurity across the state,” he said.

The meeting was also attended by Ngo Josephine Piyo, Deputy Governor of Plateau State; Gagji Shipi, Special Adviser on Security and Commander of Operation Rainbow; and Da Jacob Gyang Buba, Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs.