By Joy Yesufu
In response to the recent wave of violent attacks that have claimed over 50 lives in Bassa and other local government areas, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has announced a series of emergency security measures, including a statewide ban on night grazing and the transportation of cattle after dusk.
In a statewide broadcast on Wednesday morning, Governor Mutfwang condemned the attacks as “coordinated acts of terror” designed to displace residents and disrupt peaceful coexistence in Plateau’s ancestral communities.
“Let it be known to the killers and their sponsors: your evil shall not go unpunished. You may run, but you will not hide. Plateau will rise. Plateau will prevail.” He said
It wa reported that at least 51 persons including women, children, and the elderly were killed in the most recent attack on Kwall District in Bassa Local Government Area.
Dozens more were injured, homes were razed, and property worth millions of naira destroyed.
The governor noted that these killings occurred even as efforts were underway to stabilize Bokkos Local Government Area, which recently recorded the deaths of 52 people and the destruction of hundreds of homes.
Mutfwang rolled out several immediate measures to stem the tide of violence and enhance community security:
“Night grazing of cattle is strictly prohibited across the state.
“Transportation of cattle by vehicle is banned from 7:00 p.m. onwards.
Use of motorcycles is restricted between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. across the state until further notice.
“These measures, effective April 16, are aimed at curbing the movement of assailants and halting the logistics of terror under the cover of night,” the governor stated.
Beyond enforcement, Mutfwang emphasized a grassroots security strategy.
He called on traditional rulers, youth associations, and community leaders to reactivate local vigilante networks and organize night patrols in close coordination with formal security agencies.
To tackle the deeper roots of the crisis, the governor also:
Inaugurated a Fact-Finding Committee comprising respected independent voices to investigate the violence and recommend solutions.
Activated the Inter-Religious Council to begin stakeholder engagement across communities.
Announced the appointment of a Special Envoy on Peace to lead community consultations and coordinate grassroots intelligence.
“The Plateau spirit is resilient,” Mutfwang said.
“We are a people known for hospitality, unity, and peaceful coexistence. Those who seek to divide us along ethnic or religious lines must not succeed.”
The governor revealed that hospitals across affected areas have been directed to provide free medical care to victims, while the government is also distributing relief materials, food supplies, and temporary shelters to displaced persons.
He assured residents that President Bola Tinubu has pledged full federal support and that additional security deployments are being made to vulnerable areas.
Mutfwang urged citizens to remain calm and vigilant, and to assist law enforcement agencies with credible intelligence.
He also warned against reprisal attacks or any attempts to take the law into their own hands.
“We are rising to the occasion with renewed resolve. This government remains committed to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property. Together, we will secure Plateau.”
