President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang to take decisive steps in addressing the root causes of the persistent communal violence plaguing the state.
The President’s call came amidst fresh reports of deadly clashes in several Plateau communities.
Tinubu said he has directed security agencies to conduct thorough investigations into the latest wave of attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice.
He stressed that law enforcement must act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed and restore public confidence.
More than 40 people were reported killed when armed bandits attacked Zike community in Kwall council area of the state in the early hours of Monday.
This attack followed killing of more than 52 persons in several villages in Bokkos council area of the state earlier in the month.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu condemned the recurring killings and destruction, describing the situation as deeply troubling and unacceptable.
He emphasised that resolving the longstanding conflict requires more than just a security response, urging the State Government to confront the underlying ethnic and religious tensions fueling the violence.
The President noted the crisis, which has endured for over two decades, must be confronted head-on through fair and sustained efforts.
He expressed concerns that the cycle of tit-for-tat attacks continues to cause widespread devastation and suffering among innocent citizens.
While reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to peace in Plateau, Tinubu pledged continued support for the state government’s efforts in promoting dialogue, strengthening social cohesion, and ensuring accountability.
He said these measures are essential for achieving a permanent resolution to the conflict and restoring harmony among the state’s diverse communities.
The President added that he has maintained open communication with Governor Mutfwang, offering suggestions and strategies aimed at bringing lasting peace to the troubled region.
“The ongoing violence between communities in Plateau State, rooted in misunderstandings between different ethnic and religious groups, must cease.
“I have instructed security agencies to thoroughly investigate this crisis and identify those responsible for orchestrating these violent acts. We cannot allow this devastation and the tit-for-tat attacks to continue. Enough is enough.
“Beyond dealing with the criminal elements of these incessant killings, the political leadership in Plateau State, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, must address the root cause of this age-long problem.
“These problems have been with us for more than two decades. We can no longer ignore the underlying issues. It is time to tackle them fairly and find a lasting solution. I have discussed these problems with the governor over time and offered suggestions for lasting peace.
“The Federal Government remains committed to supporting Governor Mutfwang and the Plateau State government in promoting dialogue, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring accountability—crucial steps towards permanently resolving the conflict in Plateau,” the President said.
