The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Jos Metro Area Command, on Wednesday convened a security parley aimed at strengthening cooperation between security agencies and community stakeholders to enhance safety and prevent crime across Plateau State.
The meeting, held on Thursday 10th December 2025 at the Police Officers’ Mess in Jos, brought together representatives of security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, community groups, local vigilante members, youth leaders, traders’ unions, and civil society organisations.
With the theme “Strategy for Safer Communities,” the engagement focused on deepening community policing, improving information sharing, addressing security concerns, and reducing mistrust between civilians and security agencies.
Chairman of the PCRC Jos Metro Area Command, David Deme Dung, said the parley was designed to create synergy between the police and the civilian population.
According to him, security agencies cannot work effectively without community support.
“The police are professionals, but civilians must also assist them. If we don’t, it becomes difficult for them to work effectively,” he said.
“This meeting allows civilians to state their concerns and for security agencies to respond. Our role as PCRC is to bridge the gap, provide information, support police operations and mobilise resources when needed.”
He lamented the growing trend of individuals hiding criminals in their communities due to tribal or religious sentiments and warned that such actions only endanger the same people who try to shield these offenders.
Dung added that the PCRC plans to hold more engagements with lawyers, teachers, and other groups to strengthen public awareness on crime prevention and responsible policing.
Representing the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation Enduring Peace, Colonel Philimon Malgwi described the initiative as a welcome development and aligned with recent efforts to sustain peace on the Plateau.
“Security is everybody’s business. These engagements bring minds together to fashion ways of improving the security situation,” he said.
He emphasized that security structures on the Plateau operate jointly, with the military stepping in to support the police whenever necessary.
Addressing issues raised by stakeholders, ACP Victor Elias, Area Commander Jos Metro, said the meeting was timely, noting that law enforcement agencies must continually reassess their operations.
He urged religious leaders and families to strengthen moral upbringing, which he described as crucial to reducing crime.
“These days, parents go to church or mosque while children remain at home. We must return to proper child upbringing. The fear of God is key,” he said.
ACP Elias also spoke on drug abuse, proliferation of illegal parks, and the responsibility of landlords who allow drug dealers operate in their facilities. He urged transport unions to invest in scanners and other security devices to improve safety in motor parks.
Deputy Commander Operations, NDLEA Plateau, Idoga Alexander, highlighted ongoing efforts to curb drug sales and consumption within Jos and called for deeper collaboration with community leaders.
Chairman of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Bassa LGA, Muhammad Audu, expressed appreciation for the engagement, describing peace as a shared responsibility.
He noted gaps between government, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, stressing the need for improved communication.
“Traditional rulers and religious leaders are custodians of the people. When they are not carried along, mistrust grows,” he said.
Audu cited interreligious dialogue in Bassa as a model that has helped sustain peace in the area.
Stakeholders, including Elder Ayodele Olajide of the Yoruba Community and Ugo Michael of the Igbo Community Association, raised concerns about emerging criminal hideouts, rising drug abuse among youth, and the need for deliberate interventions.
Representatives of tricycle operators also appealed for fair treatment, noting instances of arbitrary arrests over minor issues such as wrong parking.
The meeting ended with the presentation of recognition awards to individuals who have contributed significantly to peace and security. Among the award recipients was the Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Isa Madaki Ajija.
In conclusion, the security parley reinforced the shared understanding that safeguarding communities requires cooperation, trust, and active participation from all stakeholders. With renewed commitments from security agencies, community leaders, and residents, the PCRC Jos Metro hopes the dialogue will translate into stronger partnerships, improved information sharing, and sustained efforts toward a safer and more peaceful Plateau State.
