GOVERNOR MUTFWANG HOLDS SECURITY COUNCIL MEETING, SEEKS SUPPORT OF PLATEAU PEOPLE ON FOSTERING TOLERANCE AND PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE

In a decisive move to consolidate peace and strengthen security across Plateau State, the Executive Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has convened a State Security Council Meeting to review recent tragic incidents that claimed innocent lives in Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area and other parts of the state.

Governor Mutfwang chaired the high-level meeting on Friday, February 27, 2026, with heads of security agencies and key government officials in attendance. He commended security personnel for their swift and proactive interventions, which he noted helped prevent further escalation of tensions. The Governor, however, urged them to intensify surveillance and operational efforts, particularly in rural communities where isolated skirmishes have been reported.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Governor Mutfwang condemned what he described as mischievous attempts by certain individuals to portray Plateau State negatively in the wake of recent events. He cautioned against inflammatory statements capable of inciting unrest, warning that such actions would attract the full weight of the law.

“We have just concluded a high-level Security Council Meeting where we carefully examined the developments of the past two weeks. We experienced the unfortunate mining incident in Wase, which claimed several lives and remains under investigation. We have also witnessed condemnable and unacceptable attacks in some communities. Government is determined to address these challenges decisively.”

On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, the Governor extended heartfelt condolences to families who lost loved ones in the incidents, assuring them of government’s unwavering solidarity and commitment to restoring calm.

“I commiserate with the families who lost their loved ones. Their pain is our pain. Many of these deaths were avoidable. We assure Plateau citizens that we will continue to take firm and proactive measures to prevent any recurrence.”

Governor Mutfwang unequivocally condemned the killings, explaining that two of the incidents involved attacks on commuters, while another occurred in Dorowa village, where innocent residents were targeted.

“In most of these cases, the victims were innocent citizens going about their lawful activities. Security agencies are on the trail of the perpetrators, and we will ensure they are brought to justice. Every life on the Plateau is sacred. Government will not fold its arms while criminal elements attempt to undermine our collective peace.”

The Governor also issued a stern warning against unauthorized road blockages across the state. 

“Henceforth, anyone who blocks a highway without authorization will not be tolerated. Highways and access roads are public assets meant for all citizens. Only duly authorized security agencies have the mandate to restrict movement when necessary. No grievance justifies taking the law into one’s hands.”

He further stressed that community leaders would be held accountable for incidents occurring within their jurisdictions, particularly attacks or unlawful killings along highways.

Dismissing narratives suggesting that Plateau roads are unsafe, Governor Mutfwang described such claims as exaggerated and misleading. 

“Plateau roads are safe. Plateau people are peace-loving. Those amplifying isolated incidents to tarnish the image of our state are engaging in mischief. We will not allow misinformation, especially on social media, to erode the hard-earned peace we have built over the last six months.”

The Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bassey Ewah, reassured residents that security agencies are working collaboratively to apprehend those responsible for the recent disturbances. 

“We are firmly on the trail of these miscreants. All service chiefs are working in synergy to ensure they are arrested and prosecuted. Plateau remains safe,” he stated, dismissing as false, reports alleging the discovery of a corpse in an isolated location.

The meeting was attended by top security and government officials, including the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola; Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo; Secretary to the State Government, Arc. Samuel Jatau; Chief of Staff, Hon. Jeremiah Satmark; and other senior functionaries.

Gyang Bere

Director of Press and Public Affairs

to the Executive Governor of Plateau State

February 27, 2026