Human rights lawyer, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo SAN, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to take decisive action towards addressing the ongoing violence in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of Plateau State.

Ajulo expressed his deep concern for the communities grappling with a wave of “incessant killings, heinous and brutal attacks” in an open letter to the president on Friday.

Ajulo, a recipient of the national honour Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), recounted his time in Jos during the 90s, highlighting the “resilient and peace-loving people” of the region. He emphasized that their “hard work and low income should never be an excuse for them to be denied the protection they so desperately need.”

Drawing an alarming picture of the current situation, Ajulo described the communities as living in a constant state of “fear and anguish,” with innocent lives lost, families shattered, and the very foundation of their existence threatened. He implored the President to “move beyond mere rhetoric and embrace real action” to address this “grave situation.”

The crux of Ajulo’s appeal lies in his urging for the establishment of a dedicated “special security and stakeholders committee.” This committee, envisioned as a collaboration between community security experts and individuals with deep understanding of the region, would serve as a critical step towards finding a lasting solution.
Ajulo outlined a multi-pronged approach for the committee:
Investigation and root cause analysis: The committee would delve into the underlying factors fueling the violence, providing valuable insights for addressing the source of the problem.
Collaboration with law enforcement: Close cooperation with police and security agencies would be crucial in apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring justice prevails.
Community engagement and dialogue: Fostering open communication and understanding between communities, religious leaders, and stakeholders would be key in promoting peaceful coexistence and preventing future conflict.

“Mr. President, the people of Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve better. They deserve to live without the constant fear of violence and bloodshed,” he said.

Ajulo urged the President to utilize his legal authority to protect these vulnerable communities and restore their faith in the government’s ability to safeguard their lives and property.

The SAN’s plea comes at a crucial moment, echoing the anxieties of many Nigerians affected by ongoing violence. His call for a multifaceted approach, encompassing security measures, community engagement, and a commitment to justice, provides a roadmap for the government to navigate this complex situation and bring lasting peace to the region.