Mutfwang Updates Tinubu on Plateau Attacks, Sees Hope for Peace

Governor Caleb Mutfwang says there is hope for a lasting end to the attacks in Plateau State. He made this known after meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Lagos.

Mutfwang shared this in an interview, where he discussed the security situation and his efforts to bring peace to the state. "There’s light at the end of the tunnel. All we need is constancy," he said. He added that the government is tackling the crisis with military and non-military actions.

The governor mentioned that the state government is working with communities to encourage peaceful living. At the same time, they are ensuring that those behind the attacks face the law. "We are beginning to prosecute people. We are making sure. I can tell you that a lot is happening, and we are very hopeful," he said.

After the meeting, Mutfwang said he informed Tinubu about the security issues in Plateau. He also talked about the steps his government is taking to improve safety. The president listened and showed commitment to the peace and wellbeing of the people in Plateau.

Mutfwang expressed hope that important actions, like setting up security cameras donated during the president’s last visit, would be sped up. He said these cameras would help the Plateau Security and Information Centre. They would improve intelligence gathering, surveillance, early warning, and quick response.

The governor also shared that his administration set up a subcommittee to look into concerns raised in past meetings with community leaders. This group has already submitted its report, and discussions will carry on. "We need to rebuild the walls of trust. We need to rebuild confidence in government and in governance," he said.

This meeting comes as attacks have increased in Plateau, especially in areas like Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Mangu, and Riyom. On 29 September, three women were killed and another person injured when gunmen attacked a mining site in Rakum community, Barkin Ladi.

This attack came right after another incident on 26 September in Marit village, also in Barkin Ladi. Five miners were feared dead, and two others were hurt during that attack.

Earlier, at least nine people, including a pastor, were killed in separate attacks in Barkin Ladi and nearby communities between 19 and 20 September. The ongoing violence has forced many residents to flee and disrupted their means of living.

Recently, the state government announced a ₦1.5 billion humanitarian aid for 1,571 households hit by attacks in Bassa, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu. This fund includes ₦1 billion donated by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and ₦500 million from the Plateau State Government.

Mutfwang told the president that the state plans to rebuild communities affected by attacks. This will help people return safely to their homes. The governor said the intervention will go beyond just giving money. It will also focus on restoring livelihoods and rebuilding communities.

He also updated the president on the state's efforts in transportation, education, and healthcare. This includes introducing metro buses and improving rail services. The president showed satisfaction with these efforts, especially their ability to enhance mobility and access to important services.