Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against the escalating violence across Nigeria, particularly following the recent massacres in Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin Ladi local government areas of Plateau State.
Dogara, speaking in Jos, Plateau State, during a condolence visit with former and current House of Representatives members to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, criticized previous leaders for being “mourners-in-chief” rather than taking proactive measures as “commanders-in-chief” to address violence.
He emphasized the urgency for the President to employ all available means to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators and sponsors of violence across the nation.
“The perpetrators are not just crazy but dangerous. We must stop them, and the responsibility lies with the Commander-in-Chief,” Dogara asserted.
He highlighted the importance of utilizing security apparatus to locate and ensure justice for the perpetrators, irrespective of their location within the country.
The former Speaker emphasized that the failure to hold the perpetrators accountable encourages them to commit further violence.
He called for tangible actions instead of mere condolences, stating, “Condolences are better given in the form of decisive action against the perpetrators of violence and not by mere words.”
Dogara absolved Governor Mutfwang of blame, highlighting the limitations on controlling troops. He expressed solidarity with the state governor, acknowledging his efforts in promoting peace despite constraints.
In response, Governor Mutfwang appreciated Dogara’s support and stressed the need to prevent Nigeria from descending into chaos akin to Somalia due to prolonged insecurity.
He expressed hope in President Tinubu’s apparent commitment to addressing the crisis and called for collective leadership support to find lasting solutions.
