Plateau state Governor Caleb Mutfwang has said about 50 people were killed by yet-to-be-identified gunmen in several communities in Mangu and Bokkos local government areas of the state.
The governor disclosed this Sunday at a luncheon organised by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for troops of Operation Safe Haven in Mangu.
The dastardly acts occurred in Ruku, Hurum, Darwat, Mai Yanga Sabo, NTV villages in Gashish, and Ropp Districts of Barkin Ladi local government area, as well as in Bokkos LGA Sunday, the eve of Christmas.
Speaking at the luncheon, Mutfwang expressed dismay over the spate of attacks and wanton destruction of farmlands and other property by gunmen.
He promised to adopt stringent measures to tackle insecurity in the state.
“From intelligence reports available to me, at least 50 persons have been killed in Mangu and Bokkos in the last 48 hours.
“This is unacceptable. Enough is enough. These stupid, senseless, and unprovoked acts must stop.
“However, no amount of attacks will break the spirit of Plateau people, we remain resolute and determined to progress as a people,” he said.
The governor thanked the troops for their unrelenting efforts in the fight against insecurity in the state and promised to support the military and other security agencies to secure the state.
“That way, we will prevent some hoodlums, who usually hide under the attacks, from perpetrating other crimes, such as cattle rustling, armed robbery, kidnapping for ransom, and other crimes.
“We will also strengthen other security agencies to complement the efforts of the military in tackling insecurity in the state,” the governor said.
In a speech, the Commander of OPSH, Major-General Abdusalam Abubakar, said his troops had responded to the attacks.
Abubakar said: “In the last 48 hours, we have responded to 36 distress calls from different locations simultaneously.
”As we speak, some of our men are in hospital due to the injuries sustained in attacks. But we are committed to ensuring that we put a stop to all criminal activities in Plateau.” (NAN)
Berom youth
In yet another account, the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, led by Solomon Mwantiri, said not less than 60 persons were killed in the attack.
According to available information, NTV witnessed nine casualties, Mai Yanga Sabo had five, Darwat reported three, and Hurum had 1 victim.
The neighbouring villages of Bokkos suffered the most with a death toll exceeding 40, along with numerous injuries, looting of food items, and destruction of properties.
The group said: “The BYM extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this senseless act of jihad.
“We also wish to assure the affected communities that we stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time and will continue to advocate for justice and accountability.
“We call on the government and relevant authorities not only to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, and bring them to justice but to swiftly come up with palliative packages as well as compensation for the victims.”
The BYM also urged the government to take immediate and decisive action to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of their ethnic or religious background.
Continuing, it added: “We also call on the International Community to add its voice to the genocide on the Plateau which has been unabated for years.
“The BYM want to urge all Plateau sons and daughters to put aside their differences and come together to resist terrorist elements that have taken over our ancestral lands, turning same to terrorist enclaves wherefrom armed bandits and Fulani militants have been brought and stationed to continue with the mission of annihilation, ethnic cleansing and kidnapping amongst others.
“We must also recognize that the ongoing crisis in our dear State requires a holistic approach, which would aid in addressing the root causes of the invasion otherwise there won’t be peace and sustainable development as well as social cohesion.
“In conclusion, the Berom nation wants to reiterate its commitment to upholding the principles of human dignity, equality, and justice and pledged to continue working with security personnel and all government agencies to ensure the promotion of peace and unity in our state.”
Police
Confirming the incident, police spokesman in the state, DSP Alfred Alabo said: “The DPO and Area Commander, Pankshin, are still combing the area. The attack was done simultaneously because the area is vast. Now we have to wait for them, to give us proper feedback, before the full report.
“As such, we are still combing the area to ascertain the level of destruction, while some people have been confirmed to be missing and anything, after now we will be able to give a proper statement.”
