Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has blamed desperate politicians for the recurring insecurity and attacks in the state, accusing them of attempting to destabilize his government. Mutfwang stated that terrorists and bandits unleashing violence in several communities and killing innocent people are being sponsored by politicians, especially during political cycles and election periods.
Governor's Condolence Visit and Measures
The Governor made these remarks during a sympathy visit to affected communities. He also announced a ban on night mining, night grazing, and underaged grazing. Mutfwang, accompanied by the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, along with other government officials and stakeholders, expressed condolences to bereaved families and reaffirmed his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property across Plateau State.
“I have been on this matter since it started. I have been in touch with the local government chairman and security agencies to contain the situation, and I decided to come here to see things for myself,” the Governor stated. He commended security agencies for their prompt response in preventing violence from escalating into Barkin Ladi town and assured residents that any security personnel found complicit in attacks would be investigated and brought to justice.
Security Meeting and Vow for Justice
At a strategic security stakeholders' meeting held at Gwol Motel, Barkin Ladi, attended by religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth representatives, and community stakeholders across ethnic divides, Mutfwang vowed that perpetrators of attacks in Barkin Ladi and other parts of Plateau State would not escape justice. “The life of every Plateau citizen is precious, and we will do everything within our power to protect our people. Those who take pleasure in killing and inflicting pain on others will not know peace,” he declared.
As part of measures to strengthen security and restore order, the Governor reiterated the ban on mining activities at night, directing that all mining operations must end by 5:00 p.m. daily. He also announced a ban on night grazing and prohibited grazing by underage children, urging parents and livestock owners to take responsibility for proper cattle management.
Commitment to Peace and Agriculture
Mutfwang emphasized that Plateau State would not surrender to violence or criminality under his administration. He directed security agencies to intensify efforts toward identifying and prosecuting those behind the attacks and assured residents that the state government would continue to strengthen the security architecture to guarantee lasting peace and stability. He further appealed to the media to avoid narratives capable of discouraging visitors and investors, insisting that Plateau remains the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”
The Governor also assured farmers that the government would secure farming communities ahead of the planting season and subsidize fertilizer distribution to support agricultural activities. “Prepare to return to your farms and do so safely,” he told residents.
Federal Government Support and Community Response
In his remarks, the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, expressed solidarity with the affected communities and assured them of the Federal Government's support through humanitarian interventions and recovery efforts. Youth leaders under the Plateau Youth Council (PYC), alongside representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI), and traditional institutions led by the Gwom Rwei of Barkin Ladi, commended the Governor for his swift response and continued engagement with affected communities. They also agreed to convene a broader security meeting to address emerging concerns and promote lasting peace based on the directive of the Governor.
Governor Mutfwang also visited Ngbrazongo village in Kwall District of Irigwe Chiefdom, Bassa Local Government Area, where he sympathized with residents over the recent attack that claimed innocent lives. He assured the community that additional security measures would be implemented to prevent future occurrences. Similarly, Doro sympathized with the affected residents and pledged his support toward strengthening community recovery efforts.
