The Take It Back Movement, Plateau State chapter, has called on the Federal Government to initiate an independent and transparent investigation into the mass killings and displacement ravaging the state.
The group made the call during a press briefing at the premises of the Plateau State House of Assembly in Jos on Wednesday to mark the 2025 Democracy Day, urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to act swiftly in addressing the humanitarian crisis. It also proposed that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) should lead the investigation.
State Coordinator of the movement, John Onah, who addressed journalists alongside other executives, referenced reports by Amnesty International Nigeria, stating that at least 2,630 people have been killed in Plateau State since the current administration took office two years ago.
“Nationwide, over 10,217 people have lost their lives to unchecked violence, with 672 villages sacked across just three states—Benue, Niger, and Plateau—by armed groups,” Onah said. “These statistics are not just numbers; they represent real people whose dreams, futures, and families have been destroyed.”
He warned of a looming humanitarian disaster, with communities displaced, schools deserted, and thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) lacking food, shelter, and basic healthcare. According to him, in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Riyom, and Bokkos LGAs alone, over 150,000 people have been forced to flee their homes.
Demands to the Federal Government
The group outlined a list of demands to the federal authorities:
Immediate deployment of intelligence-driven security operations in the most vulnerable local government areas.
Launch of a coordinated humanitarian response to address displacement, hunger, and healthcare.
Investment in the rebuilding of destroyed villages and restoration of livelihoods.
An NHRC-led, independent investigation into all incidents of mass killings and village displacements.
Demands to Plateau State Government
To the Plateau State Government, the movement demanded:
Funding and empowerment of local peace commissions, vigilante networks, and community-based security, including strengthening Operation Rainbow.
Regular public updates on investigations and justice processes.
Inclusion of IDPs in recovery planning and trauma counseling programs.
Empowerment of displaced persons and return of affected children to school.
Appeal to Security Agencies and Civil Society
The group also urged security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering and coordination to prevent further attacks, and to hold officers accountable where negligence or complicity is established.
On the role of civil society and the media, the movement stressed the importance of amplifying the voices of survivors and IDPs, holding public officials accountable, and advocating for justice and peace—even when inconvenient.
“Though the situation in Plateau may seem dire, it is not hopeless,” Onah stated. “We speak today not to spread fear but to inspire urgent and responsible action. The Take It Back Movement remains committed to defending democracy, justice, and human dignity.”