From Andrew Ajijah, Jos
A delegation of Nigerian governors, led by Kwara State Governor, Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman who is also the Chairman of the Forum of Nigerian Governors, Thursday paid a condolence visit to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang. The visit was in response to the recent killings in the state, which claimed over 100 lives.
During the visit, Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman conveyed the governors’ condolences, emphasizing that meaningful development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of violence. He called for an end to the cycle of violence. “The cycle of violence must stop”. The governor urged security agencies to prioritize citizen safety.
Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude for the governors’ visit, acknowledging the state’s collective grief. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace to Plateau State, despite the recent attacks taking them by surprise. Mutfwang also appealed to the federal government to enhance security measures across all 36 states of Nigeria.
In response to the attacks, Governor Mutfwang announced measures to curb the killings, including a ban on nighttime grazing and vehicular movement of cattle during late hours. He also reintroduced community policing by vigilantes, urging them to collaborate with conventional security operatives.
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and other security chiefs, including the Chief of Army Staff and the Inspector General of Police, visited Plateau State to assess the situation. The IGP announced the redeployment of a DIG to handle the security situation in the state.
Following the ugly development, civil society groups condemned the attacks and suggested the withdrawal of military personnel from the streets.
The situation in Plateau State remains tense, with fears lingering in areas where the incidents occurred. The visit by the governors demonstrates solidarity and support for the people of Plateau State during this difficult time.
Other governors who were present during the condolence visit included: Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, Benue State; Bala Mohammed, Bauchi State; Babagana Zulum, Borno State and Seyi Abiodun Makinde of Oyo State.
Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, represented Governor Abdullahi Sule.
