The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep sorrow over the recent terror attacks on defenseless communities in Plateau State, which led to the tragic deaths of several people, including children. The forum condemned the brutal violence and called for urgent action from the federal government to protect citizens’ lives and properties.
In a statement issued by ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the forum stressed the government’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard its citizens. It urged the federal government to take immediate steps to halt the wave of attacks and killings in Plateau, as well as other northern states and regions across the country.
The ACF called on the government to declare a state of security emergency in vulnerable and banditry-prone areas. It also advocated for the creation of proactive, community-based early-warning and early-response systems to prevent such incidents in the future.
“ACF reiterates its long-standing stance that each new attack is one too many. The people are suffering, not only from violence but also from economic hardships. The ongoing killings on the Plateau must be stopped, and peace must be restored to the state,” the statement read.
The forum also highlighted the need for enhanced intelligence-gathering efforts by security agencies, urging them to investigate the causes of the recent attacks. ACF emphasized that those responsible for the attacks, as well as those who enabled them, should be swiftly identified, arrested, and prosecuted.
Additionally, the forum demanded full compensation for the victims and extended relief for those injured during the assaults.
“ACF mourns deeply for the lives lost and condemns these senseless attacks in the strongest terms,” the statement continued. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected communities, the government, and the people of Plateau State, and we share in the sorrow of the victims’ families. We pray for the eternal rest of the deceased and wish strength and a swift recovery to those injured.”
The ACF also called on both the federal and Plateau state governments to empower local leaders, including elders, religious figures, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations, to facilitate dialogue for conflict resolution, reconciliation, and cooperation.
Citizens were urged to assist security forces by providing credible information about the activities of insurgents and criminals. The forum also appealed to members of the National Assembly to hold the federal government and national security agencies accountable, demanding clear evidence of a decisive response to the ongoing terror in the country.
