THE Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang has condemned the series of coordinated attacks across the state, describing them as deliberate, targeted, and part of a broader strategy to instill fear, displace communities, and destabilize the region.
In a state broadcast today following renewed violence that claimed over 100 lives, Governor Mutfwang described the situation as deeply tragic.
He noted that as the state was still mourning the over 50 lives lost in Bokkos, fresh attacks were launched in other areas.
“These are not isolated incidents,” he said. “What we’re witnessing is a calculated campaign of terror. Innocent men, women, and children have been slaughtered, homes destroyed, and families devastated. The scale, coordination, and intent are undeniable.”
Having visited some of the hardest-hit communities, the governor expressed deep concern over the suffering of displaced residents now taking refuge in churches and temporary camps. He assured citizens that the state would recover and stand strong.
“This is not random violence or mere farmer-herder conflict,” he emphasized. “It is an orchestrated attempt to wipe out our communities. But Plateau will not fall. We will protect our people, their lives and properties, and reject the normalization of bloodshed.”
To address the worsening insecurity, Governor Mutfwang outlined immediate measures aimed at restoring order:
– Night grazing is banned effective Wednesday, April 16.
– The movement of cattle by vehicle is prohibited after 7:00 PM.
– Motorcycle use is restricted statewide between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
He also announced the strengthening of security presence in all local government areas and the restructuring of the state security outfit, Operation Rainbow, to support community-led peace efforts.
In addition, hospitals across Plateau have been directed to provide free medical care to all victims of the attacks.
The governor stated that he has convened an emergency State Security Council meeting and remains in close communication with the President, Chief of Defence Staff, Inspector General of Police, and National Security Adviser.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift intervention and support in mobilizing security agencies.
As part of community engagement, Governor Mutfwang announced the reactivation of local vigilante groups to work in collaboration with security agencies. He also called on traditional leaders and youth groups to initiate night patrols in at-risk communities.
Other initiatives include:
– Appointment of a special envoy on peace to lead grassroots consultations and coordinate intelligence gathering.
– Activation of an inter-religious council to engage stakeholders in promoting peace and understanding.
– Formation of an independent Fact-Finding Committee to investigate the underlying causes of the violence and propose sustainable solutions.
“I’ve tasked the Inter-Religious Council with launching immediate dialogue with relevant groups to address the root causes of these attacks,” he said. “The Special Envoy on Peace will spearhead grassroots efforts, while the Fact-Finding Committee, comprising credible and independent individuals, will offer informed recommendations.”
Governor Mutfwang called on all Plateau residents to remain vigilant, united, and refrain from acts of retaliation.
“Let us not succumb to fear or hatred. Report suspicious activity, cooperate with authorities, and defend our communities with wisdom, unity, and love,” he urged.
To those responsible for the violence, he issued a stern warning: “Your evil will not triumph. You may run, but you cannot hide. Plateau will rise. Plateau will not be broken. Plateau will flourish—to the glory of God.”