Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has directed the conduct of a population census in areas currently occupied by terrorists, as part of efforts to reclaim the communities and ensure proper documentation of residents.
The governor issued the directive on Saturday during a visit to Tyop community in Mangu Local Government Area, following recent attacks and ongoing security concerns.
“I want a census of people living in this place. When did they build their houses, and who gave them the permission? We cannot afford to be lawless,” Mutfwang declared. “Any district head who allows unauthorized settlements without verifying identities will face the consequences.”
Mutfwang condemned the displacement of indigenous people from their ancestral homes, describing it as a deliberate strategy to entrench poverty and disrupt peaceful co-existence.
“This kind of arrangement, where the native population is chased out and others take over, is not acceptable. It is designed to keep our people in poverty, and we will not allow it,” he added.
He stressed the importance of peaceful engagement, saying, “We want everyone to live in peace. But there are procedures for acquiring land and settling. You can’t just arrive and begin building homes in disputed areas.”
The governor also visited Hurti, Daho, and other communities in Bokkos LGA affected by recent violence, where he met with displaced persons and assured them of the government’s commitment to restoring their homes and ensuring justice.
“This government stands with you. We’ve come to witness firsthand the destruction and to reaffirm our commitment to rebuilding these communities,” he said. “These attacks are calculated to stop farming, deepen hunger, and spread fear. But we will not give up.”
Mutfwang appealed for unity and vigilance, especially among the youth, urging them to protect their communities and heritage.
“God did not make a mistake placing you in this land. Do not abandon it. You are the leaders of tomorrow, and you must resist the forces of division,” he told the youths.
At the St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church in Bokkos, now a refuge for many displaced families, the governor praised the church for providing shelter and pledged government support to speed up resettlement.
He also visited a mass grave where many victims of the recent violence were buried, promising that a memorial would be erected in their honor. Prayers were led by Reverend Gideon Para-Mallam.
The District Head of Manguna, Raymond Alo, expressed gratitude for the governor’s visit and noted that some attackers are known to locals.
“If given the chance, we can identify those behind these attacks. We urge the governor to intensify efforts to draw federal attention to our suffering and the urgent need for reconstruction,” Alo said.
Mutfwang acknowledged President Tinubu’s support and promised to brief him directly on the security situation to mobilize stronger federal intervention.
