Nigerian army warns self-defense groups fueling violence in Plateau state

Nigerian army warns self-defense groups fueling violence in Plateau state

The Nigerian Army has raised concerns over the growing trend of communities arming themselves to counter rival groups in Plateau State, warning that such self-defense measures are exacerbating rather than resolving local conflicts.

Major General MA Etsy-Ndagi, Chief of Civil-Military Relations, made the remarks during a media briefing in Jos, noting that allowing communities to secure themselves has deepened the cycle of violence instead of promoting peace.

Plateau State has been plagued by recurring clashes between farming and herding communities since 2001, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. Despite calls from some groups to empower communities to defend themselves, the army stressed that these initiatives often trigger retaliatory attacks and reprisals.

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Etsy-Ndagi emphasized that security forces are committed to disarming civilians, including the confiscation of locally made weapons, to break the destructive cycle of violence. “To ensure the security of lives and property, we have to ensure everyone is disarmed and nobody fabricates weapons, so as to give way to peace,” he said.

He further explained that ongoing feuds involve farmers accusing herders of farm destruction while herders allege cattle rustling, creating a continuous cycle of retaliation. The army clarified that it does not condone communities taking up arms but continues to protect traumatized residents and support them in the pursuit of stability.

Etsy-Ndagi urged residents to embrace peaceful coexistence, cooperate with security agencies, and support efforts to restore stability and development in the state. He reaffirmed the army’s determination to tackle insecurity across Nigeria.

Nigerian army warns self-defense groups fueling violence in Plateau state