By Nahum Sule, Jalingo

The Chief of Mutum Biyu Chiefdom in Taraba State, Alhaji Sani Suleiman Muhammed, has called for greater collaboration among security agencies, vigilante groups, and hunters to effectively tackle security challenges in his domain and across the state.

The monarch made this appeal shortly after receiving his letter of appointment as National Patrol Officer of the National Vigilante Group of Nigeria (NVGN).

Presenting the letter on behalf of the Commander General, Comrade Usman Jahun, the National Secretary of the group, Yusuf Sarkin Baka, said the appointment was in recognition of the monarch’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He praised Alhaji Sani Suleiman Muhammed for his relentless efforts in combating banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities within his domain. According to him, the chief’s cooperation with security agencies, vigilante groups, and hunters has helped restore peace to the area, which was once overrun by criminal elements.

In his response, the monarch expressed gratitude to the National Vigilante Group for acknowledging his contributions to the fight against insecurity. He said the new appointment would further motivate him to intensify his efforts toward ensuring safety and peace in his community.

He commended the dedication of security personnel, vigilante members, and hunters, whose combined efforts have contributed immensely to maintaining peace in the chiefdom.

Alhaji Sani Suleiman Muhammed, however, emphasized the need for continuous synergy among all stakeholders, stressing that the roles of vigilante groups and hunters complement the operations of formal security agencies.

“Please, do not see the vigilante and hunters as rivals but as partners working to support you in addressing security challenges,” he advised security operatives.

The monarch also directed district and village heads to closely monitor the movement of suspicious individuals within their areas. He urged traditional rulers to ensure that criminals do not exploit forests within their domains as hideouts.

He reiterated that it is the duty of traditional rulers to protect their people and collaborate with security agencies, vigilante groups, and hunters to keep their communities safe from bandits and other criminal elements.