In response to the recent wave of relentless and brutal attacks on innocent communities across Plateau State, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has assured citizens that his administration remains fully committed to its constitutional duty of safeguarding lives and property.
Addressing the people in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday morning, Governor Mutfwang declared: “Let me reassure you: my government is alive to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property. We are rising to the occasion, more determined than ever.”
The Governor condemned the spate of violence in Zike village in Bassa and the horrific bloodshed in Bokkos, stating that these acts are not mere coincidences but a deliberate campaign to destabilize and displace communities.
“Let us be clear,” he emphasized. “This is not a clash. It is a calculated, systematic attempt to dismantle our communities, destroy livelihoods, and erase our identity. But I say today: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”
To address the escalating security concerns, Governor Mutfwang said he swiftly convened an emergency Security Council Meeting with all heads of security agencies. This, he stated has resulted in the deployment of additional personnel to strategic and vulnerable locations.
He also disclosed ongoing engagements with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector General of Police, and the National Security Adviser.
“I am grateful to President Tinubu for his concern and prompt directive to security agencies to act decisively and hunt down those behind these heinous crimes,” he stated.
The Governor further announced that the state’s internal security outfit, Operation Rainbow is being restructured and reinforced with six hundred new recruits to be trained and deployed with a clear mandate to provide intelligence, secure communities, and respond swiftly to threats.
On the humanitarian front, Governor Mutfwang disclosed that emergency relief and food aid are being distributed to displaced persons in churches and temporary shelters through partnerships with NEMA and SEMA.
To curb the movement of criminal elements, he announced new security directives effective Wednesday, April 16, 2025:
” Night grazing is now prohibited statewide; Transportation of cattle by vehicle is banned after 7:00 PM; Movement of motorcycles is restricted between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM daily”.
The Governor called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth associations to reactivate and strengthen local vigilante groups in close coordination with formal security agencies.
“We must not fold our arms while evil men roam at night to destroy. I call on all Plateau people to remain vigilant, united, and courageous. This land belongs to us—we must defend it, lawfully and decisively,” he urged.
Further measures announced include the activation of the Inter-Religious Council for peace mediation, the appointment of a Special Envoy on Peace to lead grassroots consultations, and the formation of a Fact-Finding Committee to investigate the resurgence of violence and propose sustainable solutions.
Acknowledging the anguish and grief in Bokkos, Bassa, and other affected communities, Governor Mutfwang expressed his deep sympathy:
“You may be tempted to believe that the system has failed you—but let me say to every grieving family: your pain is our collective sorrow. I will not rest until we deliver justice. This will not become the new normal.”
He issued a strong warning to the perpetrators and their sponsors, “To the killers and those who send them, know this: your time is up. You may run, but you will not hide. Your evil will not prevail. Plateau will rise. Plateau will not fall. Plateau will stand tall again—by the grace of God.”
Governor Mutfwang also extended gratitude to development partners, Nigerians in the diaspora, and global supporters for their solidarity. He especially commended NEMA, SEMA, and local volunteers for their prompt and tireless efforts.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
April 16, 2025.
