Plateau residents blast Governor Mutfwang over repeated condolence messages as 21 die in fresh attacks across four LGAs.
Residents of Plateau State have asked Governor Caleb Mutfwang to move beyond press statements and take concrete action to stop the killings ravaging the state.
The call came after a bloody weekend that left about 21 people dead in different parts of the state.
According to community reports, the attacks happened between Friday, September 11 and Sunday, September 13. The affected areas were Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Jos South Local Government Areas. The attackers were described as suspected Fulani extremists and local militia groups.
On Monday, Governor Mutfwang issued a statement condemning the killings. He said the incidents were deeply disturbing.
The governor said the attacks came at a time his administration is working with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders. He said the government is using dialogue, intelligence sharing and community engagement to strengthen security.
Mutfwang said peace remains a top priority for his government. He noted that protecting lives and property is central to rebuilding trust and restoring confidence. He added that his administration wants a Plateau where people can live, farm, travel, invest and work without fear.
He also assured that security operatives are on the trail of those behind the attacks and will soon apprehend them.
Residents reject condolence messages
The governor’s assurances did not go down well with many residents.
Callers on a radio programme on Monday evening said the government has failed in its primary duty of protecting lives and property.
They accused the governor of repeating the same pattern. According to them, every attack is followed by a familiar press statement and the same promises, but little changes on the ground.
What residents said on air
Social activist Nanle Bamshak was the first to speak. He said he is highly disappointed in the governor’s handling of security.
He said many people voted massively for Mutfwang because they believed he would end the cycle of violence. Bamshak alleged that the governor has now abandoned the people and is more focused on consolidating his political base ahead of the 2027 election, while killings have become almost daily.
Another caller, Peter Alamba, said residents are tired of rhetorical statements. He said what Plateau needs is proactive action to stop the violence, not condolence messages and what he called fake assurances.
Polycarp Bitrus expressed similar frustration. He said communities are being attacked, sacked and occupied, while people are killed every day. He described the governor’s response as the same scripted press statement and called the situation pathetic.
John Fadung said he was among those who supported Mutfwang in 2023 through difficult times. He said they stood by him, even when he defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
He, however, said the governor has derailed. According to him, Mutfwang is now acting like a typical politician who cares more about his political career than the welfare of the people.
As of Monday night, security agencies are yet to give a detailed update on arrests. Residents say they want to see action on the ground, not just words.
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