In a resolute expression of faith, grief, and defiance against rising insecurity, Church leaders on the Plateau in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State Chapter, and denominational heads, led a solemn Peace Walk to the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos.
The symbolic procession, marked by prayer, mourning, worship and strong calls for justice, was held in response to a renewed wave of violent attacks that have rocked Plateau communities.
Dressed in black, red, and white garments to symbolize mourning, urgency, and peaceful resistance respectively, participants in the procession called national attention to the protracted violence engulfing parts of the state, especially Bokkos, Mangu, Bassa Local Government Areas and other parts of the state.
Leading the walk was the President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Rev. Amos Mozo, who described the recent attacks as acts of terror allegedly carried out by armed Fulani herdsmen.
“The recent violent act in Bassa Local Government Area has claimed the lives of innocent civilians, including defenceless women and children. These acts of brutality represent a grievous violation of human rights and a stain on our national conscience.”
Rev. Mozo explained that the symbolic attire worn during the peace walk was deliberate:
“Black represents our collective mourning; red is a clarion call for an end to the killings; and white symbolizes our peaceful but determined resistance to impunity.”
He presented Governor Caleb Mutfwang with a comprehensive report documenting the pattern of targeted violence against Plateau citizens, lamenting that poor road infrastructure in rural communities has become an enabler for assailants.
On behalf of the Church, CAN, and denominational leaders, Mozo outlined a set of urgent recommendations, including:
“Strengthening the capacity of state and local governments to provide adequate security.
Establishing properly trained and well-equipped community policing units with rapid response capabilities. Conducting comprehensive investigations into the terrorist attacks and prosecuting perpetrators.
“Providing humanitarian assistance to victims. Rebuilding destroyed infrastructure and resettling displaced persons.
Addressing the root causes of violence. Securing transportation routes and protecting traditional and religious leaders, who are now being targeted.”
He further emphasized the importance of “national action and international support” in stemming the tide of violence.
Responding, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang commended the leadership of the Church for standing in the gap during a trying time for the state.
“I want to thank you for this peace walk. This peaceful gathering is in honour of our brothers and sisters who have been slain in the last couple of weeks for no just cause,” he said.
“The time has come, and the time is now, when we can no longer keep silent. Every Nigerian, every person of conscience must rise and say: enough is enough. Plateau has been held hostage by insecurity for nearly two decades, and our people deserve to live and farm in peace.”
Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep concern and assured him of the Federal Government’s commitment to ending the violence.
“I came into office not for mass burials, but that the glory of Plateau would be restored and, that mission cannot be fulfilled without peace,” the Governor stressed. This time, by the grace of God, anyone arrested in connection with these killings will not go scot free. Justice will be served.”
He called for a united front across all faiths and communities in Plateau, warning against complacency and division. “We will go to the farms in our numbers some will farm, others will watch our backs, Just like in the times of Nehemiah. This is a time for communal unity.”
Addressing the youth, Governor Caleb Mutfwang issued a passionate appeal: “You are the strength of our future. Let us reject anything that destroys our destiny. While we tackle insecurity, we must also deal with the cankerworm of drug abuse, which is destroying many of our young people.”
He also explained his administration’s decision to temporarily suspend illegal mining activities, citing a disturbing rise in casualties linked to unregulated mining operations.
“The number of lives lost to illegal mining last year is compared to those taken in Bokkos and Bassa. Yet, it has not drawn the same level of outrage. Plateau is a blessed land, but we’ve been surviving on crumbs. That must change.”
The Governor urged residents not to let bitterness or despair provoke lawlessness. “God remains the rock of our salvation. We are a people of peace and must never allow bitterness to drive us into wrong doing”.
He assured the gathering that church submission would be formally submitted to President Bola Tinubu and rigorously followed.The Peace Walk featured special prayers for the state, the Governor and Leaders of the Land.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
April 21, 2025.
