From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited communities in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas devastated by recent attacks, vowing to resettle displaced residents and secure their lands for farming.
His tour covered Hurti, Daho, and other hard-hit areas, where he met with Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), as announced by Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs.
Deeply affected by the conditions, particularly of women and children, Mutfwang urged residents not to abandon their ancestral lands to intruders. “We are here to witness firsthand the devastation caused by these acts of banditry,” he said.
“This village recorded one of the highest numbers of casualties in this coordinated act of terrorism and genocide. I’ve come not just to sympathise, but to assure you that this government stands firmly with you.”
He stressed unity and vigilance, telling youths, “We must rise above our differences, unite as a people, and resist the agenda of division.”
Mutfwang commended President Bola Tinubu’s support, promising to brief him personally to bolster security measures. He noted the attacks’ timing during the farming season as a deliberate attempt to deepen poverty by blocking access to farms.
“The government is doing everything within the law to provide adequate security, particularly in Bokkos LGA, to allow farmers access to their lands,” he assured residents at Hurti in Manguna District, reaffirming his commitment to rebuilding communities.
At St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church in Bokkos, a refuge for many IDPs, Mutfwang praised the church’s efforts and promised swift action to end displacement. Visiting a mass grave site, he pledged a memorial for victims, with prayers led by Reverend Gideon Para-Mallam. Chief Raymond Alo, Manguna District Head, thanked Mutfwang, noting that some attackers are known and could be identified for justice if given the chance. Alo urged greater federal intervention to aid rebuilding.
In Mangu’s Tyop community, attacked two years ago, Mutfwang condemned illegal land occupations, where intruders used materials from displaced natives’ properties to build. He ordered security agencies, community leaders, and local officials to document structures, ownership, and settlement details.
“While reaffirming Plateau State’s reputation for hospitality, he insisted that those wishing to settle in any community must do so lawfully,” the statement read, warning against actions that could spark further violence.
Mutfwang emphasised a fair and peaceful enumeration process, ensuring justice for all parties. His administration’s focus remains on resettlement, security, and restoring livelihoods to prevent further displacement and economic hardship.