Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has described the ongoing attacks on communities in the state as a genocide against the Plateau natives, rather than a mere conflict between herders and farmers.
He expressed the state’s unwavering commitment to combating insecurity, emphasizing that Plateau’s spirit of peace, unity, and hospitality remains unbroken.
Governor Mutfwang’s statement comes after the tragic loss of at least 52 lives, including children, following suspected herder attacks on communities in the Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas (LGAs) on Friday, 28th March 2025.
In a statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the Governor made the comments during the Experience Plateau: Art Meets Fashion event in Abuja. He explained, “In the past week, Bokkos Local Government Area has been under renewed attack by perpetrators who are intent on breaking our spirit. Many suggested that we suspend this event, but we realized these attackers want to keep us in constant mourning, force us indoors, and shackle our collective spirit.”
He continued, “But I said no, life must go on. Plateau must move forward by the grace of God. The genocide on the Plateau will come to an end. What is happening is not a farmer-herder conflict. Let me be clear: it is genocide, and I urge the international community to take note. We are aware that there are powerful forces behind these atrocities. By the grace of God, we will expose them and bring them to justice. Plateau will remain a land of peace and hospitality. Our communities will continue to welcome visitors.”
Mutfwang also condemned the brutal killings, noting that some victims were slaughtered while observing a wake, while others were murdered in their sleep. “May their blood cry out for justice, and may God grant them eternal rest,” he said.
The Governor reiterated Plateau’s potential for economic growth, highlighting the state’s vast opportunities in tourism, agriculture, horticulture, and recreational activities. He outlined his administration’s commitment to promoting the state’s cultural and economic development through partnerships, particularly with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).
“We are taking deliberate steps to revive skill acquisition for rural artisans, empower young creatives, and upgrade local textile infrastructure,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang also assured the people of Bokkos LGA that those responsible for the recent killings, as well as previous attacks, would be apprehended and prosecuted.
“We will no longer allow those arrested for crimes in our communities to walk free. I will pursue, and ensure the prosecution of, all whose hands are stained with the blood of our people. They will face the full wrath of the law,” he affirmed.
Addressing the people of Plateau during a briefing in Abuja, Mutfwang expressed his determination to seek justice for the lives lost in Bokkos, despite suggestions to cancel the meeting due to the tragic events. “Some advised that we cancel this meeting, but after wide consultations with our leaders both at home and in the diaspora, we decided to forge ahead,” he said.
Since the attacks in December 2023, the state had begun to reclaim its identity as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.” However, Mutfwang noted that the recent assaults were orchestrated, deliberate attempts to impoverish and intimidate the people at the start of the farming season. “Let it be known: we will farm this year. No amount of intimidation will stop us,” he vowed.
He thanked Nigerians for their sympathy and support and assured the people of Plateau that security chiefs were working diligently to protect lives and property. “I’ve had deep consultations with security chiefs, and I want to assure the people of Plateau State that everything possible will be done to protect lives and property,” he concluded.
