Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Plateau State House of Assembly has called for urgent security intervention in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area following recent attacks on communities in the area.
The lawmakers urged authorities to strengthen security operations in affected communities and called for the full occupation of the Mobile Police Barracks in Gashish to improve protection for residents.
The Assembly also requested immediate repairs to damaged infrastructure and humanitarian support for communities affected by the attacks.
The resolution followed a Notice of Motion sponsored by Hon. Dickson Chollom and seconded by Hon. Abel Nansak, representing Langtang North-North Constituency, during Wednesday’s plenary.
A statement signed by the Speaker’s Press Secretary, Philip Eplong, said the lawmakers called for measures to increase security presence and protect residents in communities affected by the violence.
The Assembly urged Governor Caleb Mutfwang to engage President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Ridwan Disu, to secure the requested intervention.
Meanwhile, the House has commenced consideration of a proposed constitutional amendment seeking to establish State Police Services and provide for related matters.
The development followed a communication from the National Assembly on the proposed amendment, which was transmitted to the Plateau Assembly through the governor.
The Majority Leader, Hon. Joseph Gokum, moved for consideration of the State Police Bill, seconded by Hon. Matthew Sylvanus Kwarpo. Speaker Naanlong Daniel subsequently directed the Clerk to read the Bill for the first time.
Daniel said State Police Services, if established, would complement the Nigeria Police Force and improve security coordination at state and community levels. He also stressed the importance of effective coordination between both structures.
The House also began consideration of legislation on the Plateau State College of Education, Gindiri, the proposed Plateau State Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, and the Plateau State Tourism Corporation. The cancer research and treatment Bill was read for a second time and referred to the Committee on Health.
The Assembly further received a motion commending President Bola Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang over the establishment of an Army Brigade in Langtang North Local Government Area and additional battalions in Plateau State.
