Riyom, Plateau State – 19th July 2025
The Special Envoy on Peace and Security to the Governor of Plateau State, Prof. Chris Kwaja, has called on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to immediately launch a thorough investigation into the gruesome killing of 27 persons in Bindi Village, Tahoss Ward, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attack, allegedly carried out by well-armed terrorists, has drawn widespread condemnation.
Prof. Kwaja, in a personally signed statement, described the attack as “avoidable”, citing early warning signs and intelligence reports that indicated a looming threat. He emphasized the need for accountability, particularly regarding the actions and inactions of military personnel stationed in the area under the Special Task Force Operation Safe Haven (STF-OPSH).
“The presence of security personnel with heavy equipment and checkpoints in close proximity to the attacked communities makes the tragic loss of life even more disturbing,” Prof. Kwaja stated.
He further urged the CDS to constitute a special board of inquiry to probe the recurring attacks in Plateau communities, with a focus on command responsibility. The inquiry, he noted, must uncover the circumstances that led to the latest massacre and examine why the STF personnel failed to intervene, despite reportedly receiving intelligence prior to the attack.
“It is imperative to investigate these incidents thoroughly, particularly claims that troops stationed nearby failed to act, even with prior knowledge of the threat,” he said.
While sympathizing with bereaved families and communities affected by the attack, Prof. Kwaja called on residents to remain vigilant and law-abiding, even in the face of provocation and loss.
In a bold recommendation, Prof. Kwaja proposed the withdrawal of military personnel from vulnerable flashpoints and their replacement with Mobile Police Squads (MOPOL), whom he described as more familiar with asymmetric warfare tactics and better positioned to respond swiftly to community-level threats.
He also urged the Federal Government to support subnational security initiatives, particularly Operation Rainbow, a community-based security architecture established by the Plateau State Government. He referenced the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) model used in the North East as a viable framework that could be adapted to Plateau’s unique security challenges.
“The Federal Government must go beyond rhetoric and support local solutions to insecurity, including arming and supervising community security outfits under military guidance,” he advised.
Prof. Kwaja concluded by reaffirming the right of all Nigerians to live in peace, stressing that it is the constitutional duty of the Federal Government to ensure that security of lives and property is guaranteed across all parts of the country.
“The citizens of Nigeria deserve a safe and secure environment. It is the responsibility of the government to protect that right,” he affirmed.
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