Prominent businessman and community leader, Chief Kefas, has denounced the recent spate of killings in Plateau State, calling the situation “heartbreaking and intolerable.” He voiced deep alarm over the escalating insecurity in the region and urged both federal and state governments to act decisively to restore peace.
In a press statement released Monday, Chief Kefas lamented the tragic loss of lives and the displacement of entire communities, stating:
> “What is happening in Plateau State is a tragedy that must not continue. The blood of our people is being spilled needlessly, and this is unacceptable in any civilized society.”
Chief Kefas, who is the CEO of Kefiano Autos and a former PDP gubernatorial aspirant in Plateau State, stressed the need to empower local vigilante groups—particularly in rural areas where security forces are stretched thin. He advocated for proper training, funding, and collaboration between vigilantes and formal security agencies to strengthen grassroots defense.
He condemned the recent massacre in Bassa Local Government Area, where more than 50 people were reportedly killed, describing it as “a horrific act of inhumanity that must not go unpunished.” He urged immediate investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
> “The killing of over 50 innocent people in Bassa is a national tragedy. These lives matter. This massacre must be investigated to the fullest extent, and justice must be served,” he said.
Chief Kefas pointed to the successful use of armed vigilantes in states like Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina as a model Plateau could learn from, urging local authorities to act swiftly.
> “We have seen how armed vigilantes in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina have defended their people and repelled attacks that would have resulted in mass casualties. Plateau State must not fold its hands. The government must rise to the occasion and take bold steps to defend its citizens,” he stressed.
Referencing the Bible, Chief Kefas quoted Luke 22:36:
> “But now, if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.”
He clarified that the quote promotes preparedness and self-defense, not violence.
> “Our communities must be equipped to protect themselves when the need arises. We are not advocating lawlessness, but we must be realistic. The government cannot be everywhere at once, and our people deserve the right to live in safety,” he added.
Chief Kefas also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations