House of Reps Establishes Special Ad Hoc Committee to Tackle Escalating Security Issues in Plateau State and Other Regions

In response to the deteriorating security situation in Plateau State and its surrounding regions, the Nigerian House of Representatives has officially set up a dedicated Ad hoc Committee to spearhead a national security dialogue aimed at finding long-term solutions to the persistent crises affecting these areas.

During the inauguration ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday, Rep. Hammed Waheed (APC-Lagos)—the chairman of the newly formed committee—expressed deep concern over the frequent violent conflicts that continue to plague Plateau State. He emphasized that the situation has reached an alarming stage, with countless lives lost, communities displaced, and trust shattered across ethnic and religious lines.

Security Crisis in Plateau: A Deepening Concern for Nigeria

According to Rep. Waheed, the wave of violence in Plateau is not an isolated scenario. Instead, it has far-reaching consequences that extend into neighboring states, posing a serious threat to Nigeria’s broader national security and stability. He noted that the recurrent bloodshed and destruction of livelihoods have left numerous families mourning and communities in perpetual fear.

“These tragic developments are not just local; they ripple across borders and compromise national unity,” he warned.

Purpose of the Ad Hoc Security Committee

In light of these concerns, the House of Representatives, during its plenary session held on May 8, unanimously approved the creation of the Ad hoc Committee, aimed at organizing a comprehensive national security conference.

Waheed stated that the goal of the conference is to bring together key actors from various sectors of society, including:

• Security agencies
• Traditional rulers
• Community leaders
• Civil society organizations
• Youth and women groups
• Scholars and policy researchers
• Political stakeholders

This diverse assembly is expected to engage in open, honest, and strategic dialogue, leading to actionable and sustainable policy recommendations.

“This is not another talk shop. It is a platform for healing, deep reflection, and crafting solutions that will end this cycle of violence,” Waheed remarked.

National Unity and Peace as Core Objectives

The committee chairman highlighted that this initiative serves as a rare opportunity for truth-telling and national healing, rather than just another bureaucratic event. The conference aims to serve as a turning point for peacebuilding efforts in Nigeria, particularly in regions such as Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and others currently facing severe communal tensions.

The House hopes that this platform will become a blueprint for addressing internal security threats across the federation.