The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, North Central, Abiodun Essiet, has visited Dyang Rim Ward in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State to sympathise with residents over recent losses and assess the security situation in the community. Essiet, who visited on behalf of President Bola……
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, North Central, Abiodun Essiet, has visited Dyang Rim Ward in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State to sympathise with residents over recent losses and assess the security situation in the community.
Essiet, who visited on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, was accompanied by the Chairman of Riyom LGA. She held discussions with women, youths, community leaders and other stakeholders to gain firsthand knowledge of the challenges confronting the area.
Residents raised concerns over persistent insecurity and the longstanding farmers-herders conflict, which they said has affected the community for more than 26 years.
The Chairman of Riyom LGA described the situation as difficult, citing insecurity, loss of livelihoods and disputes between farmers and herders as major challenges facing residents.
Community members also expressed concerns over the alleged presence of cattle and armed individuals in their communities, while claiming that a significant portion of their farmland had been taken over by herders and bandits.
Residents, however, commended the Department of State Services and the military, saying the DSS security camp had contributed significantly to reducing attacks in the community.
Women in the community appealed for urgent government intervention over the destruction of crops, which they said had severely affected farming and household livelihoods.
They also raised concerns about restrictions on their access to and participation in mining activities, saying the situation had further worsened economic hardship.
Essiet listened to the concerns and assured residents that their submissions would be communicated through the appropriate channels for further consideration.
She stressed the importance of sustained engagement and collaboration among government authorities, security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, women and youths in addressing the security challenges.
The visit forms part of the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen community engagement and ensure that the concerns of residents in the North Central region are brought to the attention of relevant authorities.
Community stakeholders, including Citizens Assembly Riyom Local Government Ward Coordinator, Bulus Sarah Davou, also participated in the engagement.
