The North Central Youth Council (NCYC) has issued a stern ultimatum to Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Muftwang, demanding he either “declare war on bandits” or resign from office over failure to address ongoing attacks in the state.

In a statement signed by NCYC National President, Activist Sunday Asuku, the youth group condemned the recurring killings of innocent civilians in Plateau communities, accusing the state government of gross incompetence and neglect in handling the security crisis.

“The primary responsibility of any serious government is the safety of lives and property. Governor Muftwang must rise to the occasion or honorably resign for a more competent hand to take over,” Asuku said.

Asuku referenced recent violent incidents, including the killing of hunters in Uromi returning home for Sallah celebrations, as further evidence of the deteriorating security situation.

He expressed concern that the government’s slow response could provoke unrest among the youth, warning of potential reprisal attacks if decisive action is not taken immediately.

Calling for federal intervention, Asuku urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to overhaul the leadership of Operation Safe Haven, the security task force assigned to maintain peace in Plateau State. He criticised the current leadership as ineffective and recommended relocating the operation’s headquarters from Jos to a more crisis-prone area for better impact.

“Any commander who fails to deliver results should not be retained at the expense of the lives they are supposed to protect,” he emphasised.

“If this insecurity is a ploy to discredit President Tinubu’s administration, then Mr. President must come out to fight it to a standstill,” he said.

Asuku extended his condolences to the families affected by the violence and emphasised the need for collective action by local leaders and community members.

He further encouraged traditional rulers and community youth leaders to intensify local vigilance, launching what it termed Operation Protect Your Territory to safeguard their communities.

Village heads and youth leaders must act as watchdogs. It’s time for ‘Operation Protect Your Territory’,” he urged.

While offering condolences to the families affected by the violence, he maintained that continued silence in the face of bloodshed Is unacceptable. (The Guardian)