By PETER TITLE
A security task force would be set up by the Plateau State Government towards resettling all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who were displaced as a result of the protracted crises that engulfed the state, back in their ancestral homes.
This news was made known by Governor Manasseh Mutfwang when he received on a courtesy visit ,the Chief of Mission, United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM), in Nigeria, Mr Laurent De Boeck at the old Government House, Rayfield, Jos recently.
According to him, since time immemorial, migration has been a crucial part of everyday life for many Nigerians, which could either be internal or international. He added that forced migration, which was part of internal migration, was driven by security, education, economic and climate factors.
He observed that several conflicts in Nigeria have continued to force people away from their homes to different parts of the country, which he described as unacceptable and that it must be addressed squarely.
In view of aforementioned, as well as the persistent attacks in the state, leading to migration of many, the governor said all modalities have been put in place towards providing adequate security for the safe return of all displaced persons to their respective ancestral homes .
He regretted the unfortunate effect of migration and how it has lingered, emphasizing on the need for a symbiotic relationship between security and the people.
Earlier, Laurent De Boeck said the organization was in the state to seek partnership on how to reconcile and create a peaceful environment in order to discourage such forms of migration.
De Boeck pointed out that the United Nations High Commission for Refugees has disclosed that as of March 2022, there were well over two million, one hundred and ninety- five thousand registered IDPS in the country.
He said the number stated was alarming and that all hands must be on deck to address this issue.
Mr Boeck therefore, commended Mutfwang for standing by the people and ensuring that their interest and welfare were protected. He assured that they would ensure they provided the necessary assistance to the Plateau State Government so that the displaced persons would heave a sigh of relief.
