Nasarawa State Government Proscribes Ethnic Vigilante Groups

The government of Nasarawa has taken a bold step by banning all ethnic vigilante groups operating in the 13 local government areas of the state.

The decision was made following an emergency security meeting convened by Governor Abdullahi Sule.

Governor Sule cited the powers vested in him through Section 97A of the Penal Code and other relevant laws as the basis for issuing Executive Order No. 1 of 2024.

This order not only bans the ethnic vigilante groups but also any other association, movement, or society affiliated with them.

The primary aim is to ensure that no group operates under the guise of providing security for particular ethnic groups within the state through the use of force or arms.

The state government has given a two-week ultimatum to the affected groups to surrender their uniforms and weapons to the state Commissioner of Police, Shehu Nadada.

Failure to comply with this directive would lead to legal consequences for the members of these groups.

The move comes amidst concerns about the activities of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani, a Socio-Cultural Association, which had recently launched a 1,144-man vigilante group to combat the issues of banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling across the state.

The detained President of the association, Bello Bodejo, has denied any links between Governor Sule and his recent encounters with security agencies.

This decisive action by the Nasarawa State Government is a clear indication of its commitment to tackling security threats and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.

By proscribing these vigilante groups, the government aims to create a more secure environment for all residents of the state, regardless of their ethnic background.