NORTHERN GOVERNORS CONDEMN JOS ATTACK, URGE CALM AND UNITY

By: Balogun Ibrahim
The Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, on Monday condemned the attack in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, calling it unfortunate, reprehensible, and completely at odds with the core values of Northern Nigeria.
Speaking after the NSGF quarterly meeting at the Gombe State Governor’s Lodge, Abuja, Governor Yahaya said the governors had conducted a comprehensive review of the security situation across the region and reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the prevailing security and socio-economic challenges facing the Northern states.
The statement, signed by the Director-General of Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, added that the tragedy in Plateau State underscores the forum’s urgent commitment to peace, vigilance, and enhanced collaboration with security agencies.
The NSGF chairman emphasised that “Such acts of violence are alien to the North, a region historically celebrated for coexistence, mutual respect, and enduring brotherhood among its diverse communities.”
Governor Yahaya called on residents of Plateau State, especially those in the affected areas, to remain calm and resist taking the law into their own hands, warning that reprisals or inflammatory actions could exacerbate an already tragic situation.
He urged community leaders, religious figures, youth organisations, and all stakeholders to collaborate in promoting peace and stability across the state.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya also lauded Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his swift and decisive response to the attack, highlighting the imposition of a 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area and the rapid deployment of security forces to restore order.
According to Yahaya, the proactive measures taken by the Plateau State Government reflect strong leadership, responsibility, and a genuine commitment to safeguarding lives and preventing further escalation.
“I commend my brother governor, His Excellency Caleb Mutfwang, for the prompt actions taken to contain the situation and restore calm. These timely measures are critical in preventing further breakdown of law and order,” he said.
The Gombe governor reaffirmed the Northern governors’ commitment to supporting the armed forces and other security agencies in fulfilling their constitutional duties. He emphasised that the forum remains united in its resolve to enhance regional collaboration against criminality, violence, and all threats to peace.
Yahaya expressed confidence that the perpetrators of the attack would be apprehended and brought to justice. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Plateau State, particularly to families who lost loved ones, and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and a speedy recovery for the injured.
