The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has described the recent wave of attacks in the state as genocidal and sponsored, following the March 28 coordinated killings in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas that left at least 52 people, including children, dead.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the immediate deployment of police tactical assets to the affected communities to curb further violence and restore peace.
Governor Mutfwang, speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, condemned the attacks and attributed them to organized terrorist groups, alleging external sponsorship with an intent to annihilate local communities.
“I can tell you in all honesty that I cannot find any explanation other than genocide sponsored by terrorists,” Mutfwang said.
“This is being sponsored from somewhere, and I am sure that in the coming days, the security agencies will work together to bring out the requisite intelligence to help us put this matter behind us.”
In response to the crisis, Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced a comprehensive intervention led by Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Kwazhi Yakubu.
The operation includes deployment of Police Mobile Force units, Armored Personnel Carriers, state-of-the-art drones, helicopters, and members of the Special Intervention Squad.
DIG Yakubu arrived in Plateau State on April 8 and paid a courtesy visit to Governor Mutfwang. During the meeting, he conveyed the IGP’s condolences and reassured the state of the police force’s commitment to restoring lasting peace.
Adejobi noted that the attacks, which began on March 28 in Bokkos, marked the start of a series of brutal assaults that have left communities devastated and heightened fears across the state.
“The IGP has directed a multi-faceted approach to not only suppress the ongoing violence but also proactively prevent future attacks,” the statement said, urging residents to support security efforts by sharing useful information.
“The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, remains fully committed to working in close collaboration with the Plateau State Government, community leaders, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to restore lasting peace and stability to the region.
“The NPF urges residents to cooperate with the police and other security agencies, providing any information that may assist in the ongoing investigation and efforts to maintain peace on the Plateau.”
The Nigeria Police Force affirmed its readiness to work closely with the Plateau State Government, local leaders, and stakeholders in seeking justice for victims and ending the cycle of violence.
