The Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has expressed condolences to the families of victims affected by the recent spate of attacks in Plateau State, ordering immediate humanitarian aid for the affected communities. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, condemned the killings in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas, affirming the government’s commitment to securing the nation and tackling criminality by terrorists, bandits, and militants.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria strongly condemns the recent killings in Plateau State,” stated Alhaji Mohammed Idris. “We are resolute in securing every inch of Nigerian territory and ensuring bold and decisive action against all forms of criminality.”
President Tinubu has directed security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators of these heinous acts, further instructing the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to collaborate with Plateau State authorities for immediate relief efforts.
In a separate response, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide condemned the attacks, calling for restructuring and the implementation of state policing systems to address such violence. Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General, labelled the attack as “brutish, cruel, and barbaric,” emphasising the need for a restructured security architecture to combat persistent security challenges.
Former Senate Minority Leader, Sen. Simon Mwadkon, urged security agencies to adopt proactive measures in apprehending the assailants, criticising the lack of adequate prosecution of past perpetrators that has contributed to the continuance of such attacks.
Amidst these tragic events, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) also condemned the violence, calling for an end to intolerance and advocating for peaceful coexistence. The group supported President Tinubu’s directives to apprehend the culprits and distribute relief materials to affected victims.
Vice President Kashim Shettima echoed the government’s stance, assuring affected communities of justice. “The killings during this festive season are devastating. We won’t rest until justice is served,” he affirmed during a condolence visit.
Additionally, various religious bodies, including the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), and security forces led by the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, have emphasised the need for peace, justice, and comprehensive investigations into the attacks.
The Plateau attacks, involving well-coordinated assaults on numerous communities, have drawn widespread condemnation, sparking demands for justice and a concerted effort to restore peace and security in the region. The recurring violence in the Middle Belt has raised concerns, with calls for holistic measures to address the underlying causes of these conflicts, including ethno-religious tensions and environmental factors.