Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited the communities recently attacked by gunmen and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace.
Mutfwang, accompanied by security chiefs and government officials, toured the affected areas on Friday, starting with Kwahaslalek village, where several lives were lost, and the Mangu metropolis, where houses and businesses were razed.
The governor expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Mangu Local Government Area over the tragic incident.
He called for dialogue among community leaders to resolve issues that could spark violence and division among the residents. He also assured them of the government’s support in that regard.
A Needless Carnage
Mutfwang described the carnage in Mangu as needless and urged the people to resist the influence of those who incite violence for their gains.
He said the government would do everything possible to prevent external aggressors from infiltrating the state and to deal with criminal elements within the state.
“This is the time to preach forgiveness and unity. It is only when we do that, that we can be vigilant to ward off external forces that divide us and make us lose focus on our development goals. We must not allow that to continue.
“I want to appeal to everyone; if anyone ever thought of giving cover to any criminal, it is time to end that and expose them. It is time to love your brothers more than your friends who are criminals. I plead with us, particularly to the Mwaghavul nation, we have always held ourselves as brothers, even if we are of different faith, we must not lose that sense of brotherhood.” He stated.
Mutfwang also announced that the state government would launch a strategic plan to combat the menace of drug addiction among the youths, who are often used by criminals to carry out attacks.
“Let me sound a word of warning to those who are making huge money from the sale of drugs and narcotics, we will come after you very soon because you cannot continue to destroy our young people and go free. By the grace of God, we will put up a strategic plan to contain the menace of drug addiction in the state.” He stated.
A plea for help
The Mishkaham Mwaghavul, John Hirse, thanked the governor for sympathizing with the people and urged him to remain focused despite the attempts to distract him.
He said the people had lost everything and needed help to return to their homes and resume their businesses. He said that would foster a speedy recovery of the economy and the social fabric of the area.
John Hirse appealed to the governor, “The people have nothing now, help them return home and the economy will recover quickly. Don’t be distracted, this is meant to distract you from your focus to bring good governance to the people”
Mutfwang later held a meeting with some stakeholders in Bokkos Local Government Area led by the Transition Committee Chairman, Monday Kasam.
He also visited the internally displaced persons who survived the recent attacks in the area, giving them hope that he was doing everything possible for them to return to their homes
The governor’s visit came after gunmen attacked Kwahaslalek village on Wednesday, killing 30 people and injuring many others. The motive behind the attack is still unknown.
Plateau State has witnessed several episodes of violence in recent years, often attributed to ethnic, religious, or political tensions. The state government have been working with various stakeholders to restore peace and security in the state.
Source: Punch
