- “We can no longer afford to sleep while the enemy strikes at night” – Mutfwang
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has admitted that the government has consistently failed to protect the people of the State from being attacked by terrorists. saying: “We failed you. On behalf of the government and security agencies, please forgive us.”
Mutfwang forgiveness plea was to the Zikke and Kimakpa communities in Bassa Local Government Area where over 50 persons were murdered on Sunday night in the latest orgy of mindless killings on the Plateau.
This is the second mass killing in Plateau State in less than two weeks. On April 3, a similar attack was carried out in Bokkos local government area, killing about 52 residents.
Speaking during his Tuesday visit to the Zikke and Kimakpa communities to commiserate with them on the attack that claimed over 50 lives and to assure them of government support, Governor Mutfwang expressed deep sorrow over the incident, admitting that despite efforts, the government fell short in preventing the tragedy.
“The whole nation mourns with you. The international community mourns with you. I have cried since yesterday,” the Governor said in an emotion-laden voice.
“All arrangements were established to avoid this, yet we failed you. On behalf of the government and security agencies, please forgive us.”
The Plateau State Governor condemned the continuous attacks that have plagued Irigwe land and promised renewed commitment toward ending the violence.
He lamented the state of infrastructure, including poor roads and lack of communication infrastructure, attributing it to years of neglect due to insecurity and terrorism.
“We are more determined than ever to ensure that no more innocent blood is shed on the Plateau. There’s no reason for anyone to take the law into their hands,” he said.
“While we continue to invest in security, communities must also rise to defend themselves. We can no longer afford to sleep while the enemy strikes at night.”
Governor Mutfwang urged communities to revive traditional security structures and called on youths to stay vigilant, especially during the upcoming farming season.
“This is not the time to lament or trade blames. It’s time to unite and protect one another. The people who attack us are not ghosts — they are known, and those shielding them are complicit,” he stated.
He also conveyed the assurances of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, promising federal support to the people to allow them survive and thrive in their ancestral land.
During the visit, the Bra Ngwe Irigwe, Rt. Rev. Ronku Aka, paramount ruler of the Irigwe ethnic group, appreciated the Governor’s presence and condolences.
He decried the consistent attempts to displace the Irigwe people through violence, even as he urged restraint from acts of revenge.
He emphasised the need for increased vigilance and proactive community security measures.
Governor Mutfwang also addressed residents at a gathering held at the Primary School in Zikke, reiterating his administration’s dedication to justice and lasting peace.
Picture and original report is from Leadership
