The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed the immediate deployment of additional police tactical squads and other resources to Plateau State in response to a series of violent attacks that have left many residents dead or injured. This intervention is part of a renewed effort by the police to restore normalcy in the state, which has been rocked by growing insecurity.
The decision comes after a troubling escalation in violence that began late in March 2025, and the IGP has made it clear that the Nigeria Police Force will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of Plateau State residents, bring the perpetrators of the killings to justice, and restore peace to the region.
The violence in Plateau began on March 28, 2025, when armed assailants launched a brutal attack in the Bokkos area. Several people were killed in the attack, and many more sustained serious injuries. This marked the beginning of a series of violent incidents that have continued to plague the region.
The violence has left communities in fear and uncertainty, with many people unable to go about their daily activities due to the growing insecurity. For weeks, residents have lived under the constant threat of further attacks, with some fleeing their homes in search of safety.
In response to this escalating crisis, the IGP has taken decisive action, deploying additional security resources to the state to help address the situation. The IGP emphasized that the police’s top priority is to ensure the safety of citizens and bring the culprits behind these attacks to justice.
In a statement released to the press, the IGP revealed that the intervention would be led by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Kwazhi Dali Yakubu. DIG Yakubu, along with a team of highly trained tactical personnel, is tasked with leading the operation to stabilize the region.
The intervention is being supported by a range of high-tech tools and personnel, including surveillance drones, Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), helicopters, and units from the Police Mobile Force (PMF). Additionally, specialized platoons from the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) are being deployed to enhance the operational capacity of the police in Plateau State.
The IGP’s statement highlighted that these reinforcements aim to not only suppress ongoing attacks but also prevent future violence. The deployment reflects the police’s resolve to tackle the insecurity in Plateau head-on and restore peace to the region.
On April 8, 2025, DIG Kwazhi Dali Yakubu arrived in Plateau State to oversee the intervention firsthand. As part of his visit, DIG Kwazhi met with the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, to discuss the situation and express condolences to the families and communities affected by the attacks.
During the meeting, DIG Kwazhi extended the IGP’s heartfelt sympathy to the victims of the violence, recognizing the emotional and psychological toll that such brutal attacks have on the communities. The visit was also an opportunity to assess the situation on the ground and to discuss the root causes of the violence with the state government and local leaders.
The collaboration between the police and the state government is seen as crucial in finding a lasting solution to the ongoing violence. Both sides emphasized the need for a coordinated effort to address not just the immediate threat but also the underlying causes of the conflict in Plateau.
The IGP has reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to working closely with the Plateau State Government, local community leaders, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that peace is restored to the region. This collaboration is aimed at developing a comprehensive strategy that addresses both the security challenges facing the state and the root causes of the violence.
The IGP’s statement underscored the importance of a sustainable, long-term solution to the security crisis in Plateau, noting that short-term measures alone would not suffice. The police plan to adopt a multi-faceted approach that includes proactive security measures to prevent future attacks and efforts to resolve any underlying conflicts that may be fueling the violence.
The IGP also urged Plateau residents to cooperate with the police and other security agencies. He encouraged people to provide information that could assist in the investigation and help bring those responsible for the killings to justice. The cooperation of the public is vital to the success of the ongoing efforts to maintain peace in the state.
The recent attacks in Plateau State have brought into focus the importance of a strong and responsive security apparatus in ensuring the safety of Nigerians. The IGP’s swift action to deploy tactical squads and additional resources reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s readiness to protect citizens and maintain order in the face of growing insecurity.
The police have long faced challenges in maintaining law and order in certain parts of the country, but the IGP’s latest directives suggest that a more concerted and well-coordinated effort is underway to address these challenges. By involving key stakeholders such as local governments, community leaders, and security agencies, the Nigeria Police Force is aiming to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed in Plateau State.
The use of modern technology, such as drones and surveillance equipment, is a critical component of the police’s strategy. This will allow law enforcement agencies to gather real-time information on movements of criminals and other potential threats, helping them take swift action to protect communities.
The situation in Plateau State is a stark reminder of the security challenges Nigeria faces, particularly in regions where ethnic, religious, and economic tensions have festered over the years. While the immediate priority is to halt the violence and bring perpetrators to justice, long-term peace will require a broader approach that addresses the root causes of these conflicts.
The Nigeria Police Force’s intervention is a critical first step in this process, but sustained efforts from all stakeholders will be needed to ensure lasting stability. The government, security agencies, and local communities must work together to address the underlying issues and create a more peaceful environment for all residents.
As the situation in Plateau continues to develop, it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in curbing the violence and restoring peace to the region. However, with a strong commitment from the government and the police, there is hope that Plateau will soon return to stability, allowing residents to live free from the fear of violence.
