2008 – GOVERNMENT WHITEPAPER ON REPORT OF THEJUDICIAL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO THE NOVEMBER 28, 2008 UNREST IN JOS AND ENVIRONS

The Government White Paper on the Report of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the November 28, 2008 Unrest in Jos and Environs presents the Plateau State Government’s official position on the findings, observations and recommendations contained in the Commission’s report.

The White Paper considers the circumstances surrounding the November 28, 2008 unrest, the issues and disputes identified by the Commission, and the evidence and submissions presented before it. It sets out the Government’s responses to the Commission’s findings and recommendations, indicating the recommendations that the Government accepts and its position on matters requiring further action.

Among the issues addressed are the recurring nature of conflicts in Jos and Plateau State, the underlying disputes between communities, the need to address the causes of recurring violence, and the importance of implementing recommendations from previous commissions of inquiry. The Commission also recommended the publication of previous inquiry reports, the issuance of Government White Papers on those reports, and their official gazetting, recommendations which the Government accepted.

Overall, the White Paper serves as the official government response to the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, documenting the Government’s position on the Commission’s findings and proposed measures for addressing the causes of conflict, promoting peaceful coexistence, and preventing future unrest in Jos and its environs.