Plateau NUJ Raises Alarm Over Kidnapping, Car Theft, Fake Drugs

Our Reporter

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Plateau State Council, has expressed concern over rising insecurity, road safety risks and public health threats in the state.

The Union raised the concerns in a communique issued at the end of its October Congress held on October 15, 2025, at the NUJ Secretariat in Jos.

The communique, signed by Chairman Ayuku M. Pwaspo and Secretary Mary Domtur, said Congress deliberated on security, public health, road safety, political environment and general welfare of residents.

On security, Congress said it was concerned over the increasing incidence of kidnapping within Jos metropolis, particularly in Gura-Topp community, where the crime was reported to be persistent.

It called on security agencies to urgently address the situation through intelligence gathering and proactive measures to protect lives and property and prevent residents from paying ransom.

Congress also expressed concern over increasing car theft across the state, noting that it poses a serious threat to citizens at a time when economic challenges have weakened purchasing power.

It raised concern over the conduct of some truck drivers operating at night, whose activities pose risks to other road users.

The Union called on traffic management and road safety authorities to strengthen monitoring and enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent avoidable accidents, loss of life, and property damage.

On activities of scrap collectors and scavengers, Congress warned that suspicious movements and inadequate monitoring could create security vulnerabilities.

It also condemned reports of destruction of graves and grave coverings by individuals scavenging for metallic materials, particularly iron rods, and called on security agencies, community leaders and residents to intensify neighbourhood surveillance and promptly report suspicious activities.

Congress expressed concern over an increase in fraudulent activities during the ember months, particularly schemes targeting passengers using commercial tricycles and taxis within Jos metropolis.

On politics, Congress acknowledged intense political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections and urged politicians and political parties to conduct campaigns peacefully and in accordance with established rules.

The NUJ noted the ongoing distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) by INEC and called on media, government, political parties and civil society to intensify public enlightenment, encouraging eligible voters to collect their PVCs and participate in the electoral process.

On public health, Congress called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC and other regulatory authorities to intensify surveillance and take decisive action against individuals and businesses involved in the production, distribution and sale of fake or substandard medicines.

On transport, Congress called on Plateau State Government to sustain enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycle operations within Jos metropolis, particularly along major roads where their activities are restricted.

The Council reiterated its commitment to responsible journalism, public enlightenment and constructive engagement with government and other stakeholders.

Please follow and like us:

20