In a significant move to bolster community security in Plateau State, the Kukah Centre, in collaboration with the state government, has called for the formal adoption of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the state’s security outfit, Operation Rainbow. This initiative was highlighted during a town hall meeting held in Jos, aimed at improving community security and accountability.

The meeting, themed "Improving Community Security Initiative for Accountable Service Delivery II," was organized by the Kukah Centre with support from the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria Programme, an initiative backed by the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The event brought together various stakeholders to discuss the importance of structured operational guidelines for security agencies.

Philemon Daffi, the Plateau State Commissioner for Justice, represented by Barrister Christopher Bot, emphasized the necessity of SOPs, stating that they are crucial for effective security governance. He noted that as security challenges evolve, the need for clear operational guidelines that promote professionalism and accountability becomes paramount. "The development and presentation of Standard Operating Procedures for Operation Rainbow is both timely and strategic," Daffi remarked, highlighting the role of these procedures in ensuring that security operations align with constitutional mandates.

Operation Rainbow has been a key player in the state's security framework, providing intelligence support and facilitating community engagement. Daffi pointed out that institutionalizing SOPs would enhance the outfit's ability to address emerging security threats while fostering public trust in its operations.

Jacob Gyang Buba, the Chairman of the Plateau State Traditional Council of Chiefs and Emirs, echoed these sentiments, describing the initiative as vital for peacebuilding. He praised the Kukah Centre for acknowledging the diverse roles various stakeholders play in achieving sustainable peace and security. Buba stressed that the implementation of SOPs would ensure that community security efforts complement formal security institutions, thereby promoting human rights and accountability.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of inclusion in peacebuilding efforts. Buba advocated for the involvement of underrepresented groups, including women and youth, in security initiatives, asserting that their perspectives are essential for effective local security strategies.

The Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, represented by Mrs. Fadasah Binta, shared insights on the positive impact of training provided by the Kukah Foundation. She noted that about 300 operatives received training, which significantly improved their operational awareness. Binta encouraged participants to engage critically with the SOP document, emphasizing the importance of constructive feedback in refining the procedures.

Dr. Julie Sanda, Director General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, acknowledged the progress made by Operation Rainbow but pointed out existing gaps in its operations. She highlighted the need for improved technology and equipment to enhance response times in rural areas, stressing that effective security requires a balance between public safety and the protection of citizens' rights.

The Kukah Centre's Project Manager, Bamber Terseer, explained that the SOPs were developed following a comprehensive assessment of the Operation Rainbow Law and similar laws in other states. This assessment identified the lack of guiding principles as a contributing factor to human rights abuses, underscoring the importance of establishing clear operational protocols. Terseer noted that the SOPs underwent a validation process involving local stakeholders to ensure they are contextually relevant and widely accepted.

As the initiative progresses, the Kukah Centre and Plateau State officials are focused on securing formal adoption of the SOPs by the state government, aiming to establish a robust framework for community security that prioritizes accountability and human rights.