by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
With regards to repetitive attacks on the Plateau, the State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has optimistically asserted that, “The Plateau-spirit is resilient, and we are a people of peace, renowned for our hospitality and unity across religious and ethnic lines; and those, who seek to tear us apart, must not succeed.”
The governor disclosed this in his broadcast on Wednesday to citizens of the State, following the recent security incidents in the state.
The governor expressed deep sadness over the recent attacks in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas of the state, saying that, “This is not random violence; this is not an isolated conflict between farmers and herders.
“What we are witnessing is a systematic and premeditated campaign – one that seeks to displace, destabilize, and instill terror and fear on our people and communities.”
He recalled that, “The tragic echoes of Dogo Na Hawa, Riyom, Barkin-Ladi, Mangu, and the Christmas Eve massacres in Bokkos remain vivid. The cycle continues, but it must not endure. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”
According to him, “As I speak today, as the Governor, but as a fellow son of Plateau, who shares in your anguish and feels the weight of the pain inflicted upon our people, and we are once again confronted by sorrow as heart-wrenching attacks have taken the lives of innocent citizens in our communities.”
He noted that “In the late hours of Sunday, April 13th, the calm of Kimakpa area of Kwall District in Bassa Local Government Area was shattered by violent assaults on Zike Village, where innocent men, women, and children were murdered in cold blood.
“Homes were torched, properties ravaged, and entire families left in agony. These attacks occurred even as we were still mourning the loss of over 50 lives in Bokkos. The scale, frequency, and intent of these atrocities are unmistakable.
“As your Governor, I stand resolved – Plateau shall not be overrun by fear, nor shall we accept this culture of bloodshed as the new normal. My administration is intensifying efforts to protect our people and enforce the rule of law across all local governments,” he stated.
“Only few days ago, I visited Hurti, Mbar, Manguna, and Daffo to witness firsthand the devastation left behind by the terrorists. I had earlier stopped at Ruwi, where mourners were brazenly attacked at a wake-keep. What I saw moved me profoundly, the suffering of displaced families now crammed into churches and temporary shelters, their lives uprooted overnight.”
The governor reassured the people that his government is alive to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property, saying, “And we are rising to the occasion more determined than ever.”
Barr. Mutfwang further stated that, “For far too long, our beloved State has made the headlines for the wrong reasons, thereby casting a shadow over our immense potential and deterring the inflow of much-needed foreign direct and local investments.
“These investments could have been the catalyst for harnessing our abundant natural resources and lifting our people out of poverty. We cannot afford to let this unfortunate reality persist.
“Despite this sorrow, the strength and courage of our people continue to inspire me, and I extend heartfelt appreciation to the National and State Emergency Management Agencies for their prompt response in providing emergency aid and comfort to survivors.
“Following these developments, I convened an emergency State Security Council meeting and have been in active consultation with federal security leadership, including the President, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, and the National Security Adviser.”
He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his concern and support and for instructing security agencies to take decisive steps to apprehend the perpetrators of these attacks.
“Also, security deployments are being reinforced, and Operation Rainbow is being restructured to support community stabilization efforts. In addition, all hospitals in the region have been directed to provide free medical treatment to victims, and relief supplies are already being dispatched to affected communities,” Mutfwang stated.
The governor further stated that, “To restore calm and strengthen vigilance, from Wednesday, 16th April 2025, the following measures have been strictly prohibited: Night grazing of cattle, Transportation of cattle by vehicle has been banned after 7:00 pm, and the use of motorcycles is restricted, from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am across the state until further notice.”
While government is also activating community-based response systems, the governor urged traditional leaders and youth associations to reactivate local vigilante groups and organize night patrols in coordination with the security agencies, saying, “We must protect our communities, while upholding the rule of law.
“To the grieving families in Bokkos, Bassa and beyond, you may be tempted to think that our security architecture has failed; but let me reassure you that, more than before, I am determined to find lasting solutions to keep you safe,” Mutfwang said.
“While extending my deepest sympathies to their loss is our collective sorrow and to all Plateau people; and I urge for calm, vigilance, and solidarity. Report suspicious movements; cooperate with law enforcement agents; reject retaliation. Justice will be pursued with resolve.
“Let us rise above fear and bitterness and unite to reclaim our land and dignity. Let us protect what is ours, not through violence, but through courage, wisdom, and love for one another,” he urged.
He appreciated their development partners (national and international), and thanked them for their continued support, saying, “Their solidarity is a source of strength in these trying times,” and appreciate all Nigerians (home and in Diaspora) and our friends across the globe for your prayers, support and encouragement.
“To the killers and their sponsors, know this: your evil shall not go unpunished. You may run, but you will not hide. Plateau will definitely continue its rise. Nothing will stop it. Plateau will prevail. Plateau will not fall. Plateau will stand tall. Plateau will continue to flourish, to the Glory of God,” Gov Mutfwang stated.