Follow Us on Google
…Vows to prosecute perpetrators, commends Tinubu for prompt intervention
By Johnson Adebowale
In an outstanding show of empathy and leadership, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice and security for the people of Plateau State, particularly victims of recent attacks in Bokkos local government area.
Addressing Plateau State indigenes resident in Abuja at the weekend, the governor declared that the pain of the people is his pain and pledged that no perpetrator of violence will go unpunished.
“We will no longer allow those arrested for crimes in our communities to walk free. I will pursue, and ensure the prosecution of all those whose hands are stained with the blood of our people. They will face the full wrath of the law,” he stated firmly.
Mutfwang briefed the audience on ongoing government efforts to address the insecurity in Bokkos and disclosed that new strategies are being introduced to guarantee the safety of farmers as the next planting season approaches.
He said: «I want to assure you that the lives lost in Bokkos will not be in vain. Some advised that we cancel this meeting due to the tragic circumstances, but after wide consultations with our leaders both at home and in the diaspora, we decided to forge ahead.
«We cannot let those behind these heinous acts think they have broken our spirit. Yes, we are mourning, but by the grace of God, we are not defeated.»
Reflecting on the broader context of the violence, Mutfwang noted: “Since the December 2023 attacks, we had begun reclaiming our identity as the Home of Peace and Tourism. For over a year, we recorded no major incident. But these attacks are clearly orchestrated, deliberate attempts to impoverish and intimidate our people at the start of every farming season.
“Let it be known: we will farm this year. No amount of intimidation will stop us. I appreciate the outpouring of sympathy and support from Nigerians across the country. I’ve had deep consultations with security chiefs and I want to assure the people of Plateau State that everything possible will be done to protect lives and property.”
The governor extended his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift response and firm commitment to restoring peace in the state. He commended the President for directing federal agencies to deliver relief materials to victims of the Bokkos attacks.
Mutfwang confirmed that some masterminds of the attacks have already been apprehended and stressed that the era of arrest without prosecution is over.
«As your governor, I make this solemn promise: anyone involved in spilling the blood of a Plateau citizen will be pursued and brought to justice. None of them will go scot-free,” he emphasized.
He urged the 54 ethnic nationalities of Plateau State resident in Abuja to remain united and uphold the core values of the state which are peace, unity, hard work, tolerance, excellence, and hospitality. He called on public servants and those in positions of influence to emulate the legacy of Amb. Bagudu Mutle Hirse, former Federal Permanent Secretary and Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia, whose life of fairness and service touched many.
Mutfwang further appealed to citizens to give back to their communities and support one another, regardless of ethnic or religious differences. “Let each of us contribute to the progress and unity of Plateau State. Our strength lies in our togetherness,” he said.
Similarly, in a show of solidarity, the governor personally visited Ruwi village on Saturday, where gunmen attacked mourners, leaving the community in mourning. He vowed to take decisive action.
Mutfwang empathized with the people of Bokkos and other affected parts of the state, reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity and restoring peace. He strongly condemned the attack on innocent civilians, describing it as a cowardly act.
Encouraging the local community to stand firm in protecting their ancestral land, he urged the youth to prioritize vigilance and surveillance while advising against isolated farming to mitigate further attacks.
«The government will not relent in its efforts to safeguard Plateau’s heritage. We stand with the people at all times, and urgent measures are being taken to address the current security threats in the state,» Governor Mutfwang assured.
During his visit to the Bokkos Traditional Council, the governor extended his heartfelt condolences over the unprovoked attacks on defenseless mourners in Ruwi and other parts of Bokkos LGA. He called on traditional rulers to remain united and steadfast in defending their communities against those seeking to destabilize the region.
Mutfwang reaffirmed that his administration is working tirelessly with security agencies to curb these violent attacks and ensure justice for the victims.
