Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has vowed to bring to justice the perpetrators and their sponsors responsible for the recent deadly attacks in Bassa and other parts of the state, which have left numerous people dead and many others displaced.
In a state broadcast on Wednesday, Mutfwang condemned the attacks, describing them as “coordinated acts of terror” aimed at displacing local residents and undermining their right to live peacefully in their communities.
Recall that the latest violence in Kwall District, Bassa Local Government Area, resulted in the deaths of at least 51 people, including women, children, and the elderly, along with widespread destruction of homes and properties.
Mutfwang highlighted that the attacks occurred while the state government was addressing similar violence in Bokkos Local Government Area, where 52 people lost their lives and hundreds of homes were destroyed.
In response, the governor announced new security measures to restore peace, including the deployment of additional troops and law enforcement personnel to vulnerable areas.
One of the key measures is a ban on night grazing, along with restrictions on the transportation of cattle by vehicle after 7 p.m., starting immediately on Wednesday.
Additionally, the use of motorcycles will be restricted from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. throughout the state until further notice.
“We are taking these steps to ensure that our communities remain safe. Effective from Wednesday, April 16, the following measures will be enforced: Night grazing of cattle is prohibited, transportation of cattle by vehicle is banned after 7:00 PM, and the use of motorcycles will be restricted from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM across the state,” Mutfwang stated.
To further enhance security, the governor urged traditional leaders and youth organizations to revive local vigilante groups and initiate night patrols in coordination with security forces.
He emphasized the importance of protecting the communities while upholding the rule of law.
The governor also announced the formation of a Special Envoy on Peace, who will lead grassroots consultations and intelligence gathering.
Furthermore, an independent Fact-Finding Committee will be set up to investigate the root causes of the violence and make recommendations for long-term solutions.
Mutfwang expressed strong resolve, stating, “The Plateau spirit is unyielding. We are a peaceful people, known for our hospitality and unity. Those who seek to divide us will not succeed. To the perpetrators and their sponsors, know that justice will be served. You can run, but you cannot hide. Plateau will rise. Plateau will prevail.”
In addition to these measures, the governor has ordered hospitals to provide free medical treatment to victims of the violence and assured that relief materials, including food supplies and temporary shelters, are being provided to displaced persons.