Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, on Monday, visited communities attacked by gunmen in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state.

Mr Mutfwang toured affected settlements alongside Bernard Doro, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.

The visit followed recent attacks on Nding and neighbouring communities, where gunmen killed residents, injured others, and destroyed property worth millions.

The governor met grieving families and community members, offering condolences and assurances of stronger security intervention.

He later joined traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders at a town hall meeting in Barkin Ladi.

Mr Mutfwang said his administration remained determined to restore peace across every troubled community in Plateau.

He said, “Let me convey my sincere condolences to the good people of Barkin Ladi.

“Particularly, I mourn with families who have lost loved ones during these painful attacks.”

The governor admitted that recurring violence in recent weeks had deeply unsettled both residents and the government.

He said, “The security challenges in our communities, extending even to Barkin Ladi town, have left us greatly worried.

“As your leader, I have come to assure you clearly that we are prepared to protect this state.”

Mr Mutfwang said government intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists in some communities around Barkin Ladi.

He assured residents that security forces would soon flush out criminal elements from their hideouts.

The governor praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting ongoing efforts to end violence in Plateau.

He said, “Those who have chosen to disturb the peace of our land will find no peace. Our capacity to confront these terrorists is not in doubt.

“I assure you the President wants every terrorist removed from our territory and remains committed.”

Mr Mutfwang warned political actors against exploiting the state’s security crisis for partisan interests.

He urged security agencies to intensify operations and ensure criminals were decisively confronted.

The governor called on community and religious leaders to unite across ethnic and faith lines.

He said collective unity remained essential in confronting criminal networks threatening peaceful coexistence.

Mr Mutfwang also urged youths to reject cattle rustling and other criminal activities.

He encouraged them to channel their strength toward protecting their communities from external attackers.

The governor warned against night grazing, underage grazing, and illegal night mining.

He stressed that his administration would not tolerate activities capable of worsening insecurity.

Mr Mutfwang appealed to residents to remain law-abiding and avoid reprisal attacks.

He said peaceful cooperation with authorities would strengthen efforts to restore lasting stability. 

(NAN)