Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, has condemned the attack meted on members of the Task Force enforcing the executive order on urban renewal and some traders at the Bukuru market, Jos South Local Government Area of the state.
This is contained in a statement by Mr Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor, issued on Monday in Jos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that hoodlums on Monday afternoon attacked members of the task force and traders, and set many vehicles ablaze at the market.
NAN also reports that one life was lost during the sad incident.
Mutfwang, who expressed deep regret over the ‘shameful’ act, promised to bring the miscreants to justice.
The governor, who said that the market was designated by the government to accommodate lawful businesses, appealed to street vendors to relocate accordingly.
”I wish to express my deepest regret over the shameful action of these miscreants, who did not only targeted the task force but endangered the lives of traders.
”This market is designated by the government to accommodate lawful business activities, so I appeal to street vendors to relocate accordingly.
”The reckless behaviour of the attackers, who wielded dangerous weapons to inflict harm and loot shops, resulting in the destruction of vehicles owned by innocent traders is unacceptable.
”We condemn the incident which is entirely avoidable and we call on those flouting Executive Order 003 to desist from such act as their uncivilised action has resorted to violence against law-abiding citizens,” he warned.
Explaining the broader purpose of the executive order 003, Mutfwang said that it aimed at safeguarding Jos metropolis from deteriorating into a slum and den for criminal activities.
Mutfwang, who reiterated government’s unwavering resolve to decisively confront troublemakers, called on the security agencies to swiftly apprehend all perpetrators and ensure they face justice without delay.
He called on religious and community leaders in the affected area, to guide their followers against unlawful conducts and adopt measures that would thwart criminal elements who may take advantage of such situation to cause disorder.
The governor, who condoled those whose properties were destroyed during the incident, promised to foster peaceful atmosphere at all levels. (NAN)
