From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has visited displaced families in Mushure and Tangur communities of Bokkos Local Government Area, following a series of brutal terrorist attacks in the localities.
Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyangui Bere, in a statement, said that this was in demonstration of the governor’s steadfast compassion and resolve towards the displaced persons in the area.
Mutfwang sympathised with the displaced persons and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to their welfare and protection. He assured the victims that no household in distress would be left unattended, especially during those trying times marked by grief, loss, and trauma. The governor expressed his deepest condolences to families who lost their loved ones and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.
The visit came in the wake of deadly incursions by terrorists who unleashed attacks on innocent villagers, resulting in multiple fatalities and the destruction of homes and livelihoods. In immediate response, the governor directed the conduct of a comprehensive needs assessment to enable the prompt delivery of assistance, particularly to the most vulnerable, including women and children.
Speaking to hundreds of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Mushure, Governor Mutfwang declared: “We are here in Mugure, a community that has endured relentless onslaughts over the past three weeks. I salute the resilience of our people and commend the youth for their collaboration with security agencies in defending this land.
“Mushure is a strategic settlement, a gateway to several communities. We know the attackers’ agenda is to bring Mugure down to gain access to other areas. But we will not let that happen. This is a blessed land. It produced Plateau State’s first civilian governor in the Fourth Republic, Chief Joshua Dariye. We will continue to stand by you and ensure this community stands strong.”
Mutfwang also urged the youth to stay away from destructive habits such as drug abuse and alcoholism, noting that those vices diminish their strength and value.
“Our youth are our heritage. We need you now more than ever. Let us not be divided at heart; if God is God, let us serve Him in truth and unity,” he said.
The governor strongly condemned acts of betrayal by individuals allegedly compromising the security of their communities for personal gain and urged that anyone caught would face the full weight of the law.
While addressing the people of Tangur, Mutfwang reiterated his commitment to inter-community cooperation, peacebuilding, and infrastructural development:
“We are here in Tugure this evening to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Makai Tangur and all bereaved families for the recent tragic events. The news of those losses came as a deep shock. We mourn with you and pray for God’s strength to bear this loss.”
He emphasised that his administration would never abandon any community affected by violence.
“We will continue to assess the security situation, deploy reinforcements, and ensure that no part of the state is left vulnerable. Tangur Gurure holds a special place in my heart. When I first contested for office, the delegates here appreciated me in full. Their gesture remains dear.”
The governor also conveyed the condolences and support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring the people that the federal government remained fully committed to assisting Plateau State in restoring peace.
“We are working to reinforce security presence, deploy more personnel, and provide motorcycles to enhance mobility across difficult terrain. We are also exploring ways to improve key rural roads to ease access for security operatives and emergency responders,” he added.
In his response, the District Head of Mangu, Miskaham Jonah Laluwe, called for the establishment of permanent security outposts in vulnerable areas. He also recommended the formation of a joint task force between Plateau and the neighbouring state to track and address criminal elements operating along the borders.