by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The 19 Northern Governors’ Forum, led by Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, has paid a condolence visit to the people and Plateau State over the recent attacks in Bokkos, Mangu and Barki-Ladi Local Government Areas of the State.
While characterising the incident as “pure terrorism,” Abdullahi Sule urged the deployment of technology to identify perpetrators and curb their operations in the North Central.
He emphasized the collective responsibility of all Nigerians in addressing the challenge. He was speaking on Tuesday during a condolence visit by the Governors’ Forum.
He emphasized the forum’s significance as “a cohesive force in the nation” and highlighted the region’s abundant natural resources, stating their potential benefits for the entire nation.
Engr. Abdullahi Sule, who is the Forum Chairman, conveyed condolences for the Christmas Eve attacks, describing Plateau State as a true home for Nigerians.
He stressed the need to identify the root cause of the issue for a lasting solution, expressing confidence in Governor Mutfwang’s ability to address it with wisdom and courage.
Also, the Governors of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, condemned the heinous act and called for unity to safeguard the common destiny of the people within the region. They encouraged investment in agriculture to harness the region’s abundant natural resources.
In responding, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State reaffirmed his dedication to collaborating with fellow governors in the region to promote peace, unity, and substantial development.
He expressed gratitude for their support after the recent attacks in Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas.
He emphasized the region’s significance as a cohesive force in the nation, and highlighted the region’s abundant natural resources, stating their potential benefits for the entire nation.
Governor Mutfwang called for united efforts to combat armed banditry, terrorism, and criminal activities prevalent in the region. While condemning the recent acts of terrorism in Plateau, he appealed to the Federal Government for assistance in dualizing the Wamba-Panyam and Akwanga-Jos roads, which he noted, “Are crucial gateways for security operations in the North East.”
Speaking also, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, appreciated the governors’ unity and urged them to focus on the region’s mineral resources for the prosperity of its people.
The delegation, from the three states, comprised of top government officials, religious leaders, and traditional rulers, among others.