The Conflict Research Network (CORN) West Africa has called for accountability and urgent reforms in Nigeria’s security response following renewed violence in Jos, Plateau State, which has left dozens dead in recent weeks.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Abuja-based peacebuilding organisation expressed condolences to affected families, describing the recurring attacks as both a security failure and a reflection of the human cost of prolonged conflict.

Rising death toll raises concerns

The group highlighted a pattern of escalating violence across Plateau communities in early 2026.

At least 10 people were reportedly killed in February during night attacks in Barkin Ladi and Riyom. By March, more than 30 others had died in Angwan Rukuba, many described as vulnerable residents.

Despite repeated assurances from authorities, local communities say protection remains inconsistent and unreliable.

‘Security must be a lived reality’

CORN West Africa’s Head of Programmes and Operations, Lara Raji, said security efforts must go beyond visible deployments.

“Security is not merely the deployment of boots on the ground; it is also the presence of justice and the assurance of safety,” the organisation said.

She added that for residents in affected areas, safety must be something experienced daily not just promised.

“For parents in rural settlements and young people across affected communities, security must be a felt reality… not just read about in policy documents or news reports.”

Gaps in early warning and response

The organisation raised concerns over what it described as a persistent gap between early warning signals and actual response by authorities.

According to the statement, communities often detect warning signs such as rising tensions or suspicious movements, but lack effective systems to escalate threats quickly.

“The absence of a real-time mechanism to escalate and act on this intelligence continues to create a dangerous response lag that leaves civilians exposed.”

This gap, it said, has contributed to repeated cycles of violence in the Middle Belt region.

Calls to Tinubu, National Assembly

CORN West Africa urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen political will around civilian protection by enforcing accountability within security agencies.

It also called for an operational review to improve intelligence use and ensure faster response times.

The group further reminded the National Assembly of its constitutional oversight role, particularly in monitoring defence spending and ensuring resources are effectively utilised.

“The National Assembly’s lawful oversight on defence spending… is critical to achieving lasting peace in the country,” Raji said.

Why it matters

Plateau State has long been a flashpoint for communal and sectarian violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

Analysts say recurring attacks not only threaten lives but also undermine economic activity, displace communities, and weaken trust in public institutions.

The latest killings highlight ongoing challenges in translating security policies into real protection on the ground.

What’s next

CORN West Africa called for coordinated action across all levels of government, including stronger collaboration between state authorities and local communities.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peacebuilding initiatives and promoting data-driven tools to prevent future violence.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 4,000 personnel across the Federal Capital Territory to maintain law and order during the Easter celebrations.

The FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, said the move is aimed at protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure before, during, and after the holiday period.

He explained that officers have been stationed at key public locations including churches, shopping malls, markets, hospitals, motor parks and recreational centres.

Why It Matters

Easter is one of the most widely observed Christian holidays in Nigeria, often marked by large gatherings, making it a potential target for security threats.

Authorities say the increased deployment is intended to deter criminal activity and reassure residents amid ongoing national security concerns.

Special Units and Surveillance

According to the NSCDC, the deployment includes specialised units such as the Armed Squad, Female Strike Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, and Agro Rangers.

Undercover operatives have also been deployed for intelligence gathering and surveillance.

Officials say black spots, including abandoned buildings often used by criminals, are being monitored to prevent security breaches.

Commandant’s Directive

Mr Odumosu has directed area commanders and divisional officers to ensure visibility across all councils in the FCT.

“We are ready as always to ensure a peaceful celebration. You have a part to play too by being proactive, vigilant and ready to cooperate with law enforcement agencies for our collective good,” he said.

He also warned personnel to maintain discipline, avoid harassment of civilians, and adhere strictly to rules of engagement.

Public Advisory

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

The commandant advised the public to watch out for unusual behaviour, unattended bags, or suspicious objects in public spaces.

He warned criminals and vandals to stay away from critical national assets, noting that covert teams are positioned across the city.

Broader Security Efforts

The NSCDC says it is working closely with other security agencies to strengthen safety measures across Abuja.

Mr Odumosu added that the collaboration is designed to “stay ahead of those with ulterior motives”.

What’s Next

Security operations are expected to continue throughout the Easter period, with authorities monitoring developments and adjusting deployments as needed.

Residents are encouraged to cooperate with officials to ensure a peaceful celebration.

The Lagos State Police Command has announced a major security deployment across the state ahead of the Easter celebrations, assuring residents of safety before, during and after the holiday.

The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, said officers and operational assets have been strategically positioned to prevent crime and ensure a peaceful festive period.

He said the operation would cover worship centres, recreational venues, highways, transport hubs and other public infrastructure.

“Adequate deployment of personnel and operational assets to strategic locations across the State… to guarantee maximum security coverage.”

Why it matters

Easter is one of the busiest travel and religious periods in Nigeria, particularly in a densely populated city like Lagos.

Large gatherings at churches, beaches and entertainment centres often increase security risks, including traffic congestion, petty crime and emergencies.

The police say the proactive measures are designed to reduce those risks and reassure residents and visitors.

Focus on waterways and traffic

Authorities say special attention is being given to riverine communities, with the Marine Police deployed for patrols and surveillance.

This is aimed at preventing criminal activities on waterways, which remain a critical transport route in parts of Lagos.

The command also said it is working with other agencies to manage traffic and ensure smooth movement across the city during the holiday period.

Call for public cooperation

Mr Fatai urged residents to remain vigilant and work with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities.

“While assuring residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property… he emphasises the importance of community partnership in effective policing.”

Residents were encouraged to use emergency lines provided by the police for distress calls and information sharing.

Easter message to residents

The police extended goodwill to Christians, urging reflection on the values of love, sacrifice and peaceful coexistence associated with the season.

“The Lagos State Police Command wishes all Christian faithful a peaceful and joyous Easter celebration.”

What’s next

Security operations are expected to continue throughout the Easter period, with officers maintaining visibility in high-traffic areas.

Authorities say the strategy will be reviewed after the celebrations to assess effectiveness and address any gaps.