THE SPECIAL TASK FORCES (STF) – AGENT OF STATE SPONSORED TERRORISM AGAINST BOKKOS INDIGENES? -Barr. John Apollos Maton

Introduction

The destruction of farmlands in Bokkos by Fulani herdsmen is a significant issue with far-reaching consequences. These acts of trespass and destruction not only devastate the livelihoods of local farmers but also exacerbate tensions between communities. Agriculture is the backbone of the economy in Bokkos, and when herdsmen allow their cattle to graze on cultivated lands, it leads to food insecurity, economic hardship, and increased poverty among farmers. Moreover, the destruction of farmlands often triggers conflicts, as affected communities are left feeling helpless and abandoned by authorities. The lack of accountability for these actions perpetuates a cycle of violence and mistrust, further destabilizing the region. To address this issue, there must be stronger enforcement of laws protecting farmland and a commitment to resolving disputes through equity, fairness, and justice. Only then can the peace and agricultural productivity of Bokkos be restored.

Statement of the Problem

The STF has taken to intimidating and arresting Indigenes of Plateau State – victims of trespass and property destruction, instead of the Fulani Immigrants who brazenly trespass on their property and set their cows loose to destroy their farms. The two most painful cases that show this gross injustice are:
• In February, a poor widow in Butura Gida was forced by the STF to pay fine of One Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N1,500,000) to the Fulani herders who sent their cows to her potato farm to graze. The man who was opposed to the payment was then murdered by the same Fulani and to this day, the STF have done nothing about it.
• On the 18th August 2024, at Majakata Mbar District, a young man was illegally arrested by the STF because three cows who had trespassed onto his farm and destroyed his property – while the said Fulani who had committed the trespass and destruction of property roam free.
• Farmers are now left with the conclusion that whoever reports cases of farmland destruction and livestock trespassing will end up arrested by the STF and coerced into paying large sums of money to secure their release.
This illegal arrest and extortion of victims of farmland destruction by Special Task Forces (STF) instead of apprehending the Fulani herdsmen responsible for various crimes is a grave miscarriage of justice. This situation not only undermines the rule of law but also exacerbates the already tense relations between different communities, eroding trust in the institutions meant to protect them.

Perpetuation of Injustice

When law enforcement agencies, like the STF, arrest and extort victims instead of addressing the root causes of crime, they contribute to a cycle of impunity. The Fulani herdsmen, often accused of trespassing, property destruction, rape, and murder, continue their activities unchallenged. This sends a dangerous message that certain groups are above the law, while the victims, who are often farmers trying to protect their livelihoods, are further victimized by the very authorities meant to protect them.

Erosion of Trust in Law Enforcement

The role of law enforcement is to uphold justice and protect citizens, regardless of their background or social status. However, when the STF targets victims instead of perpetrators, it creates a deep-seated mistrust between communities and law enforcement agencies. This mistrust can lead to communities taking matters into their own hands, potentially escalating violence and leading to further breakdowns in social order.

Exacerbation of Communal Conflicts

The failure to address the crimes committed by Fulani herdsmen, coupled with the unjust treatment of victims, fuels existing communal tensions. Farmers, who are often left defenseless, may begin to harbor resentment towards the Fulani herdsmen and the authorities, leading to a cycle of revenge and counter-revenge. This not only destabilizes local communities but also threatens national security.

Hindrance to Agricultural Productivity and Development

Agriculture is a key sector in many rural communities, providing livelihoods and food security. When farmers are unable to protect their land from destruction, and when they are further victimized by law enforcement, it hampers agricultural productivity and development. This has long-term implications for food security and economic stability, particularly in regions where agriculture is the primary source of income.

The Need for Accountability and Reform

To address these issues, there must be a concerted effort to reform law enforcement practices. This includes holding STF members accountable for their actions and ensuring that they focus on apprehending the true perpetrators of crime. Additionally, there should be a transparent investigation into cases of extortion and unjust arrests, with reparations made to the victims. Only through accountability and reform can trust be restored, and justice be served.

Conclusion

The arrest and extortion of victims of farmland destruction by STF instead of targeting the actual perpetrators is a significant injustice that undermines the rule of law, exacerbates communal conflicts, and hinders development. Immediate action is needed to rectify these wrongs and ensure that law enforcement agencies fulfill their duty to protect all citizens.
The solutions to the security problems and resultant invasion of Plateau State, destruction of lives and property, and the displacement of indigenous peoples in various parts of Bokkos and Plateau State are obvious, have been repeatedly advocated for, and seem to be grossly ignored by government – leading credence to the suspicions of this new agenda of suppression of the indigenous people by the STF, being State Sponsored Terrorism.

About the author

John Apollos Maton Esq. DRS. ChMC. ACIArb (UK). PAN. MA. is a Lawyer, Consultant, Dispute Resolution Specialist and Activist Passionate about Sustainable Development, Leadership, Good Governance, Rights Protection, Education, Physical Fitness and Literature.

While my education has mostly been legal – the highest being an MA in International Law and Diplomacy, my personal development is a wide range that includes Conflict Resolution, Leadership Training, and Security Intelligence Studies. His work experience includes INEC; Plateau State, the Ministry of Justice, Kaduna, Two Law Firms, The House of Representatives, National Assembly and many NGO’s; one of which is Models Against Cancer Foundation; the Global Director of Funding for, and VAII to which he is a Board Member and Chief Operations Officer.