The Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has assured residents of Plateau State that his administration will take decisive steps to halt the renewed wave of unrest affecting some communities, declaring that the government will not allow insecurity to overwhelm the state.
The governor gave the assurance during a visit to communities recently involved in unrest by unknown gunmen in Barkin Ladi and Bassa Local Government Areas, where he also convened a strategic security meeting with stakeholders and security agencies.
Speaking at Nding community in Barkin Ladi LGA, Mutfwang told residents that his administration was already strengthening security operations to protect lives and property across vulnerable areas.
According to him, the government had identified weaknesses within the existing security structure and was already working with security agencies to improve response mechanisms and prevent further attacks.
“We are determined to restore peace and ensure that our people are protected. In the coming days, residents will begin to see significant changes in our security arrangements,” the governor said.
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Mutfwang, who visited affected families alongside the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, condoled with the victims of the unrest while reassuring them that the government would not abandon them.
“As part of immediate measures aimed at improving security, I hereby announce a renewed enforcement of the ban on night mining activities across Plateau State. All mining operations must end by 5:00 p.m. daily. No more night grazing . We ban grazing by underage children. Let me warn that anyone found violating the directives would face sanctions,” he said.
The governor explained that the measures were introduced to curb criminal activities and improve surveillance in rural communities affected by insecurity.
Mutfwang further vowed that those behind the unrest would be tracked down and prosecuted, insisting that every life in Plateau State remains valuable. He disclosed that allegations suggesting possible involvement of some security personnel in recent attacks would be thoroughly investigated.
“Despite the concerns raised by residents, I want to commend the security operatives for preventing the crisis from spreading to neighbouring communities. I urge citizens not to lose confidence in security agencies,” he stated.
He appealed to residents to support security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing the need for vigilance and cooperation among communities.
The governor equally assured farmers that adequate security arrangements would be put in place ahead of the farming season to enable them to return safely to their farms.
“In addition, the state government would subsidise fertiliser distribution to support farming activities in affected communities. Plateau State would not surrender to violence and criminality under my administration; I am confident peace would ultimately prevail,” he noted.
He also urged the media to avoid reports capable of discouraging investors and visitors, insisting that Plateau remains deserving of its reputation as the “Home of Peace and Tourism”.
