The decision by the Nasarawa State Government to direct the Department of State Services (DSS) to conduct a full-scale investigation into the unfortunate incident that disrupted the courtesy visit of the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, to the Emir of Lafia on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, is a welcome development.

We commend the government for taking this decisive step and for recognising the need to identify those responsible for the incident, including the individuals who may have sponsored, instigated or facilitated the violence. Those found culpable must be brought to justice in accordance with the law, irrespective of their status, political affiliation or influence.

However, it is important to state that the government ought to have taken concrete action against acts of violence, intimidation and political intolerance long before this unfortunate incident occurred. Preventive measures and timely intervention are essential to maintaining peace and protecting the dignity of public institutions. Nevertheless, it is better late than never. The government’s decision to initiate a thorough investigation is a step in the right direction, and we hope it will not end with mere announcements but will result in credible findings and appropriate legal consequences.

We also urge the security agencies to discharge this responsibility professionally, impartially and transparently. Anyone found to have participated in or sponsored the violence should be held accountable through due process.

Furthermore, we call on all well-meaning individuals, traditional rulers, community leaders, political stakeholders, youth organisations and civil society groups across Nasarawa State to come out openly and condemn this unfortunate act. Violence and lawlessness have no place in a democratic society, regardless of the political differences or grievances that may exist.

The traditional institution deserves respect, and the office of the Vice President, like every other constitutionally established institution, must be accorded its due dignity. Political disagreements should never degenerate into violence, disorder or conduct capable of threatening the peace and unity of our state.

Nasarawa State belongs to all of us. Its peace, stability and reputation must not be sacrificed on the altar of political rivalry or personal ambition. We must collectively reject political thuggery, intimidation and every form of violence.

Let justice prevail, let those responsible be held accountable, and let peace remain the foundation of our collective existence in Nasarawa State.