Plateau monarchs, CSO unite against arms proliferation, insecurity

The West African Action Network on Small Arms and Light Weapons (WAANSA) has engaged traditional rulers in Plateau State as part of efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and curb the proliferation of arms and ammunition across the region.

The civil society organisation, operating under the framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), expressed concern over rising insecurity and the influx of illicit weapons through porous borders.

Speaking during an interface with Jacob Buba, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Traditional Council of Chiefs and Emirs at his palace on Wednesday in Jos, Martine Igwe, the pioneer Regional Vice President of WAANSA, said the organisation was intensifying advocacy for regional cooperation in tackling the spread of small arms and light weapons.

Igwe noted that Plateau State has for years remained on the negative side of history in terms of peace and security, stressing that the organisation considered the state a critical area for intervention.

“As an organisation advocating peace and security, Plateau is one of the states we must engage. We are integrating traditional rulers into the peace-building process, which is why we are here today to seek collaboration with the paramount ruler and explore ways to advance the cause of peace on the Plateau,” he said.

He lamented that despite Plateau’s reputation as the “Home of Peace and Tourism” and its once-thriving entertainment industry, insecurity had continued to damage its image and economic growth.

“People are now afraid of Plateau State, and this has affected economic development. That is why we are collaborating with the office of the paramount ruler to see how peace can be restored and Plateau returned to its glorious past,” Igwe added.

Responding, Buba commended the organisation for what he described as a timely initiative, noting that sustainable peace could only be achieved through attitudinal change and collective responsibility.

“The security situation requires a holistic approach in every facet of life. We must go back to the basics by addressing issues from the perspectives of family, culture, religion, politics, social values and the economy,” the monarch stated.