Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has visited communities hit by recent gunmen attacks in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, vowing that his administration will put an end to the violence.
The governor toured the affected settlements alongside the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, following deadly raids on Nding and neighbouring communities. Gunmen killed several residents, injured others, and destroyed property worth millions of naira.
During the visit, Mr Mutfwang met grieving families and community members, offering condolences and promising stronger security intervention. He later joined traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders at a town hall meeting in Barkin Ladi.
“Let me convey my sincere condolences to the good people of Barkin Ladi,” the governor said. “Particularly, I mourn with families who have lost loved ones during these painful attacks.”
He admitted that the recurring violence in recent weeks had deeply unsettled both residents and the government. “The security challenges in our communities, extending even to Barkin Ladi town, have left us greatly worried. As your leader, I have come to assure you clearly that we are prepared to protect this state.”
Mr Mutfwang revealed that government intelligence had confirmed the presence of terrorists in some communities around Barkin Ladi, and assured residents that security forces would soon flush out criminal elements from their hideouts.
He praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting ongoing efforts to end violence in Plateau. “Those who have chosen to disturb the peace of our land will find no peace. Our capacity to confront these terrorists is not in doubt. I assure you the President wants every terrorist removed from our territory and remains committed.”
The governor warned political actors against exploiting the security crisis for partisan interests and urged security agencies to intensify operations. He called on community and religious leaders to unite across ethnic and faith lines, stressing that collective unity remained essential in confronting criminal networks threatening peaceful coexistence.
Mr Mutfwang also urged youths to reject cattle rustling and other criminal activities, and to channel their strength toward protecting their communities from external attackers. He warned against night grazing, underage grazing, and illegal night mining, stating that his administration would not tolerate activities capable of worsening insecurity.
He appealed to residents to remain law-abiding and avoid reprisal attacks, saying peaceful cooperation with authorities would strengthen efforts to restore lasting stability.
