By Uzair Adam
Governor Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State has decried the escalating insecurity in the state, revealing that no fewer than 64 communities have been overtaken by bandits.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the governor described the situation as a form of genocide, allegedly perpetrated by terrorist groups backed by unidentified sponsors.
“I can tell you in all honesty that I cannot find any explanation other than genocide sponsored by terrorists,” he said, adding that security agencies must uncover the identities of those behind the acts.
Muftwang explained that the affected communities, located within Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom Local Government Areas, had been previously attacked in 2023.
Despite efforts by residents to rebuild, he lamented that renewed assaults have now forced them out, with their lands being occupied and renamed by the assailants.
“As I am talking to you, there are not less than 64 communities that have been taken over… People are living there conveniently on lands they pushed others away from,” he said.
The governor further noted that the nature and scale of the violence indicate an organised effort, stressing the need for coordinated security action.
He said, “If these attacks have been going on for close to 10 years, it tells you that there is a deliberate, conscious attempt to clean out population. I am sure that in the coming days, the security agencies will work together, not at cross purposes but in unison.”
He reiterated that the violence in Plateau has gone beyond farmer-herder clashes, asserting that the crisis is the handiwork of organised criminal elements bent on destabilising the state.
“The aim of the enemy is to throw the state into gloom and mourning but we will rise above their intent,” he assured.
“This is not a farmer-herder issue… it is organised crime by malicious elements who do not want peace to reign.”
Muftwang concluded by expressing hope for divine victory and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to resist the forces of instability.