Nigeria Governors’ Forum Condoles With Plateau Over Recent Killings, Calls For Unity

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), led by Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, visited Plateau State on Thursday to offer condolences to Governor Caleb Mutfwang following the recent attacks and killings in the state.

Abdulrazaq, accompanied by fellow governors, expressed the forum’s deep sorrow over the recent security breaches in Plateau, which have claimed numerous lives. The governors visited to show solidarity and offer their support to the government and the people of Plateau.

Speaking on behalf of the NGF, Abdulrazaq stated, “On behalf of NGF and the people of our various states, I bring you sincere words of condolence on the unfortunate events in which many of our compatriots have lost their lives.”

The NGF Chairman commended the swift response of security agencies to the attacks and called on key stakeholders within Plateau to rally behind Governor Mutfwang’s efforts to end the cycle of violence in the state.

He further emphasised the importance of collaboration, urging leaders across communities and sectors in Plateau to unite in the pursuit of peace.

Abdulrazaq said, “Leaders should come together to speak strongly against violence of any kind; we urge the good people of Plateau to resolve all differences through dialogue, fair negotiations, mutual respect, and perspective taking.”

The Kwara governor also pointed out that while Plateau has immense potential, particularly in agriculture and tourism, these opportunities could be negatively impacted by ongoing violence.

“Sustainable development can be a mirage in an atmosphere of tension and violence,” he warned.

Abdulrazaq commended Governor Mutfwang for the proactive steps taken to prevent future incidents, assuring him of the NGF’s unwavering support in addressing the state’s security challenges.

Mutfwang’s Response And Call For Action

In his response, Governor Mutfwang thanked his colleagues for their visit, stating that their support had given him added strength to continue working towards the safety and security of Plateau’s residents.

He also expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the federal government’s assistance during the crisis.

Governor Mutfwang emphasised the need for intensified border security, suggesting that the perpetrators of the recent attacks were largely foreigners.

“I call on our security agencies to step up efforts in securing the borders and preventing the infiltration of external forces,” he urged.

Other governors who participated in the visit included Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, and Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State.