I sincerely appreciate the myriad of messages from our readers who have persistently sent in feedback. Due to space constraints, I have decided to publish a few of the writeups relating to the topic. “Dark clouds over Benue-Plateau.”
Another look at Benue-Plateau crises (2)
To worsen the situation, the government seems not to have a solution to tame these killings. These Fulani have not hidden their ambition, most recently, the leader or spokesperson for the MACBAN was all over the media after the killings recorded in Bokkos, Ryom, Mangu and Bassa. He gave the government conditions for peace in the state. This is how ruthless they are. One expects that the DSS ought not merely invite him, but arrest him for interrogation to give more details of the unwarranted killings. He has a lot to unravel to investigators. They have an agenda, no doubt about that.
Governments’ solution to these crises.
Every crisis has a remedy, except if not tailored properly. The state government cannot sleep when citizens of the state are being slaughtered daily and blood is flowing at every stage of life in the state. The push for state police is an eminent and important agitation, which should be embraced by all well-meaning citizens and pursued by the Plateau State government. The federal forces cannot tame this madness to its fullness. Therefore, I implore the Governor to the re-strategise the Operation Rainbow established by former Governor Jonah Jang to a more robust outfit, taking cognisance of the validity of the crises in the state. Government should take a cue from states like Ondo, Edo or Enugu who have formed their own security force and fully support their operational strategies. Involve the services of retired soldiers, policemen, NSCDC and DSS to train these outfits. Commit them to take charge and use their wealth of experience to guide their operations. Plateau State is bordered by Kaduna, Abuja, Nasarawa and Taraba. These states share the burden of this terrorism by the Fulani gangsters. Do not assume that these terrorists are within the state alone, they come mostly from Nasarawa and unleash mayhem in Plateau and escape quietly, as is done from the Kaduna axis and so on. This requires a pragmatic intelligence network to tame the inflow of terror groups from other states to help their sister security agents in Plateau State. More needs to be done. Media hype, as we mostly read, cannot help out. But prudent, strategic planning and execution can go a long way to mitigate these crises and bring lasting peace to the state.
*By DSP Sunday Mitchbi (rtd), Former SARS officer (08033290489)
————————————
Effects of social media on Benue-Plateau crises
The Plateau crises in Northern Nigeria have been exacerbated by the proliferation of social media, which has enabled the dissemination of inflammatory and divisive content. This writeup assesses the impact and effects of social networking on the Plateau crises, security management systems and conflict management in Northern Nigeria. It examines the role of core values, ethnic and religious bigotry and the questions of peace-building processes in the region.
The Plateau crises have been a recurring phenomenon in Northern Nigeria, with social media playing a significant role in exacerbating the conflict. Social media platforms have enabled the dissemination of inflammatory and divisive content, which has contributed to the escalation of violence and tensions in the region.
The impact of social media on the Plateau crises has been significant, with social media platforms being used to:
Spread misinformation and propaganda. Social media platforms have been used to spread false information and propaganda, which have contributed to the escalation of violence and tensions in the area.
Incite violence. Social media platforms have been used to incite violence and promote ethnic and religious bigotry, which has contributed to the crisis.
Polarize communities. Social media platforms have been used to polarize communities and reinforce divisions, making it more challenging to resolve the conflict.
It is important to review the importance of the security management system in Northern Nigeria. It is a well known fact that social media plays a significant role in exacerbating the conflict. The security agencies have struggled and are finding it difficult to keep pace with the rapidly evolving social media landscape, which has made it challenging to manage the conflict effectively.
The assessment of core values in the region reveals that ethnic and religious bigotry have been significant factors contributing to the Plateau crises, with social media platforms being used to promote divisive and inflammatory content.
The lack of tolerance and understanding between different ethnic and religious groups has contributed to the crisis. It is also important to note that social media platforms are being used to reinforce existing divisions. Meanwhile, the polarization of communities along ethnic and religious lines has made it more challenging to resolve the conflict.
Of course, the peace-building process in Northern Nigeria has been challenging to both the governments at all levels and security agencies, as social media plays a significant role in exacerbating the conflict. It is important to note that, to promote peace and stability in the region, it is essential to promote dialogue between different ethnic and religious groups, using social media platforms to encourage understanding and tolerance, inclusive governance and representation, ensuring that all ethnic and religious groups have a voice in the decision-making process.
As a patriotic and concerned Nigerian, I wish to recommend to the National Assembly the following:
* Regulate social media platforms to prevent the dissemination of inflammatory and divisive content.
*Promote media literacy and critical thinking skills, enabling individuals to effectively navigate social media platforms and identify misinformation and propaganda.
* Encourage responsible social media use, promoting tolerance, understanding and respect for different ethnic and religious groups.
Moreover, the impact of social media on the Plateau crises in Northern Nigeria has been significant, with social media platforms being used to spread misinformation and propaganda, incite violence and polarize communities. To promote peace and stability in the region, it is essential to address the root causes of the conflict, foster dialogue and understanding, and encourage inclusive governance.
*By Dr. Yahuza Getso, Security, Intelligence and Investigation Expert, Community Driven Development Professional
————————————
Benue-Plateau: Security hints
* Stay informed
Listen to local news (radio, TV, trusted online platforms) for updates on security situations.
* Avoid high-risk areas
Refrain from travelling to known conflict hotspots, especially during tense periods.
*Avoid isolated roads or rural areas at night.
*Improve personal and home security
Lock doors and windows properly, especially at night.
Install simple security systems like motion-sensitive lights or local alarm systems, if possible, or padlock alarm systems.
*Keep emergency contacts (police, local vigilante heads, neighbours) saved and written down.
*Avoid spreading rumours
Sharing unverified news can create panic. Confirm information before spreading.
*Encourage inter-community dialogue to resolve misunderstandings before they escalate.
[5/21, 12:11 PM] +234 803 647 6418: Please, this is the corrected version of Okezie’s column, Security File. Thank you.