The serene landscapes of Plateau State, Nigeria, were recently shattered by a series of brutal attacks on several communities within Bassa Local Government Area. The violence, which occurred in two separate incidents, targeted Hurti, Josho, Daffo, and other communities in Manguna District, as well as Zike and Kimakpa communities in Kwall District, Iregwe Chiefdom. These attacks left a trail of devastation, claiming numerous lives and reducing homes and properties to ashes. The sudden surge in violence sent shockwaves through the region, prompting swift action from the federal government.
In response to the tragic events, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, embarked on a visit to the affected communities to assess the situation and commiserate with the bereaved families. He expressed the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of its citizens, assuring the residents that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. Badaru emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was deeply concerned about the attacks and had issued explicit directives to apprehend those responsible. The minister pledged to collaborate with the Plateau State government to implement effective security measures that would prevent future occurrences of such violence.
Recognizing the urgent need for a multi-faceted approach, Badaru further stated that the government would engage all stakeholders in the affected communities to address the root causes of the conflict and break the cycle of violence that has plagued the region. This collaborative effort aims to foster dialogue, build trust, and promote peaceful coexistence among the diverse communities residing in Plateau State. The minister’s visit signaled the government’s determination to bring an end to the senseless killings and restore peace and stability to the affected areas.
The Brra Ngwe of Iregwe chiefdom, Retired Rev. Ranka Aku, welcomed the Minister of Defence and expressed gratitude for the prompt response from both the federal and state governments. While acknowledging the swift action taken, Aku lamented the persistent attacks and destruction of properties in the chiefdom. He appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify their efforts to curb the violence and bring lasting peace to the region. Pledging his support, Aku promised to work closely with the government to achieve this objective.
The traditional ruler also highlighted the immediate needs of the displaced victims, urging the government to provide the necessary support to enable them to rebuild their shattered lives. He emphasized the importance of providing assistance for the reconstruction of homes and properties destroyed in the attacks, recognizing that this would be a crucial step in restoring normalcy and stability to the affected communities. Aku’s plea underscored the urgent need for humanitarian aid and government intervention to address the immediate and long-term needs of those affected by the violence.
The Minister of Defence was accompanied on his visit by Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, along with senior military personnel and other government officials. This high-level delegation demonstrated the government’s commitment to addressing the situation comprehensively. The presence of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction further emphasized the government’s focus on providing relief and support to the victims, indicating that addressing the humanitarian crisis resulting from the attacks was a priority. The government’s immediate response, combined with the commitment to long-term solutions, offers a glimmer of hope for the affected communities, signaling a potential turning point in their struggle for peace and security.
