Monday, April 20, 2026

Jos Kllings: Diasporan group asks urgent action, backs state police

The group also called for comprehensive security reform, including the establishment of a state police force.

• April 3, 2026
President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu

A diaspora group, under the auspices of the Plateau State Association USA, Inc., has called for urgent action in tackling attacks and killing of innocent people.

In a statement by the group’s national president, Barth Shepkong, on Friday.

The group also called for comprehensive security reform, including the establishment of a state police force.

“The current security structure is no longer sufficient to address localised and evolving threats.

“Strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, including state policing, is essential,” it said.

The group, which strongly condemned the recent killings in the state, described the violence as “unacceptable and a grave concern requiring immediate and coordinated action”.

It said that the recurring nature of these attacks highlights serious gaps in prevention, response and overall security coordination.

“The continued loss of innocent lives under recurring circumstances underscores the urgent need for more proactive, coordinated and effective security measures.”

PSA-USA called on the President Bola Tinubu-led government to take immediate and decisive steps to address the deteriorating security situation in the state.

“The protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of government.

“We urge the President and the federal government to act with urgency and resolve to safeguard the lives of citizens in Plateau state,” it said.

The association stated that repeated incidents of violence, especially where warning signs are evident, must be met with swift and effective intervention.

“Where early warning signs exist, they must be matched with early and effective action,” the group said.

PSA-USA explained that those responsible for these acts of violence must be held accountable.

“Those responsible for these attacks must be identified, arrested and prosecuted without delay. Accountability is essential to breaking this cycle of violence,” it said.

It also called on critical stakeholders in Plateau state, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, state lawmakers and members of the National Assembly, to act with urgency and take collective responsibility for protecting the lives and property of the people they represent.

“This is a moment for leadership. All stakeholders must act decisively to protect lives and restore public confidence in the system,” it said.

The association warned that sustained inaction or delayed responses risk undermining public trust and further endangering communities, noting that 

“sustained and coordinated action is critical to restoring public trust and ensuring lasting stability.”

As a diaspora organisation with deep ties to Plateau communities, PSA-USA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for sustainable security solutions and accountable governance.

“PSA-USA stands in solidarity with the governor and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, particularly those directly impacted in the affected communities, and reiterates the urgent need for immediate and sustained efforts to prevent further loss of life.

“The protection of human life is the first duty of government—and it must not fail,” it said.

The PSA-USA is a non-profit, non-political and non-religious organisation that unites Plateau indigenes in the U.S. to support education, healthcare and socio-economic development initiatives for underserved communities in the state.

(NAN)

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