PLATEAU GOV PROMISES SWIFT JUSTICE AFTER GUNMEN ATTACKS IN BARKIN LADI

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has pledged swift justice for victims of recent gunmen attacks in Dorowa Babuje and Jong communities in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

Represented by his deputy, Ngo Piyo, the governor visited the affected communities on Thursday, offering condolences to residents and reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustaining peace in the state.

“Acts of violence against innocent citizens will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” Mutfwang declared, warning that such crimes would face the full weight of the law. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a painful setback, and assured that security agencies had been directed to intensify investigations, apprehend the perpetrators, and bring them to justice.

He urged youths and residents to remain vigilant, security-conscious, and law-abiding, cautioning strongly against taking the law into their own hands.

The Chairman of Barkin Ladi LGA, Stephen Pwajok, commended security operatives for their prompt response in containing the situation and preventing further bloodshed. Abubakar Kanam, Special Adviser to the Governor on Non-Governmental Organisations, called on residents to embrace peace, unity, and cooperation with authorities.

Traditional and religious leaders also weighed in. Gwom Rwei of Barkin Ladi, Da Edward Bot, described the attacks as a blow to the area’s development and stability, appealing for dialogue and unity to restore normalcy. Rev. Samson Dido, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Barkin Ladi, stressed the importance of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

In Jong community, Alhaji Tambari Gizo, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, thanked the government for its support and urged residents to pursue peace.

The governor’s entourage included Gen. Gakji Shipi (rtd), Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, Daiyabu Dauda, Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, and other senior officials.

Earlier, nine victims of the Dorowa Babuje attack were laid to rest in a mass burial on Tuesday. The ceremony drew grieving family members, community leaders, and religious figures.

Ezekiel Dachomo, Chairman of the Regional Church Council of the Church of Christ in Nigeria, who officiated the burial, condemned the killings and called for protection of Christian communities, prayers for widows and families, and forgiveness for the perpetrators.

“The need for protection of Christians and Christian communities that are facing persecution is paramount. We need to pray for the widows and those who lost their breadwinners. We also need to forgive even the bandits,” Dachomo said.

The government has assured continued security efforts to prevent further attacks and restore lasting peace in the affected communities.