The Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA) has expressed deep sorrow and condemnation over the recent attack in Kwahaslalek village, Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State, Nigeria. The tragic incident, which resulted in the death of 30 people and extensive property destruction, occurred despite a recently imposed curfew by Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Mr. Lawrence Kyarshik, National Director of Public Affairs for MDA, released a statement criticizing the apparent inaction of security forces during the attack. He called for a reevaluation of the security strategy, suggesting the replacement of the military with Mobile Police (MOPOL) and Civil Defence Corps personnel.
According to a report by The Sun, Kyarshik expressed frustration over the failure of security agencies to respond effectively, despite prior warnings of potential attacks in the area. He accused some military personnel of complacency and even collusion in the violence, undermining public confidence in their impartiality and effectiveness.
The MDA’s statement highlighted eyewitness accounts suggesting biased actions by the military, leading to a growing distrust among the local population. The association has urged the community to remain vigilant and defend themselves against further attacks while calling for professionalism and impartiality from the security forces.
Meanwhile, the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Plateau State chapter, also condemned the resurgence of violence in Mangu town. Dr. Salim Musa Umar, the State Secretary of JNI, expressed concern over the crisis’s escalation into an ethnoreligious conflict and the challenges in implementing the curfew due to stretched and allegedly compromised security forces.
Attempts to reach Captain James Oya, spokesperson of the Special Forces Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), and DSP Alfred Alabo, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Plateau State Command, were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
This situation in Mangu LGA represents a broader challenge facing the region, where communal tensions and inadequate responses from security forces have led to repeated incidents of violence and loss of life.
