IHRC raises alarm over Plateau insecurity, demands justice, equal response

The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust Nigeria Chapter has raised serious concerns over the worsening security situation in Plateau State.

They called for urgent justice, fairness, and accountability from the authorities.

In a statement issued by its Country Director, Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the group said it was deeply worried about the continued violence in the state, especially in Jos and surrounding communities.

The organisation said Plateau remains a highly sensitive and fragile area. It warned that any perceived injustice, inequality, or lack of accountability could further inflame tensions and threaten both regional and national stability.

“There is an increasing perception of selective response to attacks. While some communities receive swift attention and condemnation, others suffer heavy losses without adequate response, support, or prosecution of perpetrators,” the statement said.

It stressed that such a situation raises “serious concerns about fairness and equality before the law,” urging the government to act without bias.

“The government must remain fair, inclusive, and neutral. Its constitutional and moral duty is to protect all citizens regardless of religion, ethnicity, or social status,” the group added.

According to IHRC, any real or perceived discrimination weakens public trust and deepens division among citizens.

The statement also pointed to past violent conflicts in Nigeria as a warning, including the Yelwan Shendam crisis, as well as incidents in Lagos and Kano, noting that failure to address injustice often leads to reprisals and prolonged violence.

“These past events clearly show how unresolved grievances and lack of justice can lead to deadly cycles of violence and revenge. This must not be allowed to happen again,” it warned.

The group further highlighted gaps in security operations, including attacks occurring close to security formations, a shortage of personnel in high-risk areas, and the spread of inflammatory statements without consequences.

“These issues continue to pose a serious threat to peace and public safety,” the statement said.

Listing key concerns, IHRC mentioned inequality in government response, delays in the justice system, weak security presence in vulnerable communities, and failure to address hate speech and inciting comments.

The organisation insisted that justice must be “genuine, timely, impartial, and transparent,” adding that “any society that tolerates injustice is laying the foundation for lasting conflict.”

It therefore called on the Federal Government, the Plateau State Government, security agencies, and community and religious leaders to act quickly and decisively.

“They must ensure protection for all citizens without discrimination, prosecute all perpetrators, strengthen security in vulnerable areas, and curb all forms of incitement and hate speech,” the statement urged.

IHRC also sent a strong message to political leaders, warning against bias or silence during crises.

“Political leaders must understand that bias, discrimination, or silence in times of conflict will ultimately harm their future ambitions. Leadership is not about tribe, religion, or region, it is a national responsibility,” it said.

The group added that any leader aspiring for national office must recognise the need for support from all Nigerians.
“Nigerians will judge leaders not just by their words, but by their actions. History does not forget, and what is done today will shape public trust tomorrow,” the statement noted.

It warned that any sign of injustice or discrimination could affect future public support for such leaders.

The organisation concluded by stressing that Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole cannot afford a repeat of past tragedies.

“Sustainable peace can only be achieved through justice, fairness, accountability, and good leadership. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” the statement added.