The Plateau State Youth Council (PYC) has raised serious concern over the escalating wave of insecurity across the country, warning that the rising cases of kidnapping, banditry, and senseless killings pose grave risks to citizens—especially children and young people.

The Chairman, Plateau State Youth Council, Panan Gongden Dapar, made this call in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Council, Bahal Nanpyal Mark, urging Nigerians to remain alert and proactive in safeguarding their communities.

According to the statement, the disturbing resurgence of criminal attacks reflects the tactics of marauders who often heighten assaults to prevent farmers from harvesting their produce and to destabilise social activities ahead of the festive season.

The Youth Council called on parents, guardians, and residents across all communities to intensify vigilance and promptly report any suspicious movement, unfamiliar face, or unusual activity to security agencies, community vigilante groups, or local authorities. Timely reporting, it noted, is critical for swift security response and harm prevention.

The Council also advised residents to adopt essential safety practices as part of their daily routines, including:

1. Avoiding isolated routes, especially at night, and informing a trusted person about their movements.
2. Avoiding the sharing of personal schedules or sensitive information online, and immediately alerting neighbours or security operatives when strange individuals or vehicles are seen loitering.

Reaffirming its commitment to the safety of Plateau residents, the PYC said it will continue engaging security agencies and relevant stakeholders to strengthen community-driven responses to insecurity during this festive season and beyond.

“Our resolve as a nation must remain firm. We are called to show unwavering patriotic commitment in protecting our God-given heritage,” the statement added.

“We must stand united in these challenging times, confident that our collective resilience will see us emerge stronger and more united.”