In response to the latest surge of violence in Plateau State, where coordinated attacks claimed at least 51 lives in Zikke and Kimakpa communities of Bassa Local Government Area, Governor Caleb Mutfwang summoned an expanded state security council meeting on Monday, April 14, at the Government House in Jos.
The assault, which occurred in the early hours of the day, adds to the growing insecurity plaguing the state.
Witnesses described a horrifying scene as over 100 armed assailants stormed the villages, firing indiscriminately and leaving a trail of destruction.
“We were patrolling a nearby area with vigilantes and some security men when the attack happened,” said Wakili Tongwe, a leader in Kwall community. He noted that although the attackers were eventually repelled, 36 bodies were discovered immediately, and four more victims later succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. Several others sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment, while numerous homes were set ablaze during the raids.
In his remarks after the security meeting, Governor Mutfwang expressed outrage at the killings and committed to taking decisive action to halt the cycle of bloodshed.
“We are on top of the situation and will go to any length to forestall a recurrence,” he assured, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to restoring peace in the region.
This attack follows closely on the heels of a similar massacre in Bokkos LGA, where 52 people were killed, underscoring the deteriorating security situation in Plateau’s central belt.
Historically, the state has witnessed violent confrontations often linked to disputes between nomadic herders and farming communities.
However, Governor Mutfwang insists the current pattern of killings reflects something far more sinister.
“I can tell you in all honesty that I cannot find any explanation other than genocide sponsored by terrorists,” he said during a recent appearance on Channels Television.
“The question is, who are the persons behind the organisers of this terrorism?”
Mutfwang further revealed that at least 64 communities spread across Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom LGAs have already been seized by armed groups.
“They have been taken over, renamed, and people are living there conveniently on lands they pushed others away from,” he said.
While security agencies have not yet released an official statement on the latest massacre, the Federal Government has pledged urgent intervention.
Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed a “comprehensive deployment of police tactical assets” to the troubled areas in a bid to quell the escalating violence.
