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Tag: Plateau

  • Plateau killings indefensible, perpetrators must be arrested – Northern senators

    Plateau killings indefensible, perpetrators must be arrested – Northern senators

    The Northern Senators Forum on Tuesday, December 26, condemned mass killing of villagers in Plateau state, describing the act as heinous and indefensible.

    The lawmakers made the condemnation in a statement by its spokesperson, Senator Suleiman Kawu Sumaila, in Abuja.

    The statement reads in part: “It is with profound sorrow and a weighty heart that, as a forum, we address you on the recent tragic incident of mass killing in Plateau State.

    “This brutal act is indefensible, devoid of reason, and stains our shared humanity. We unequivocally condemn such heinous acts and express our deepest condolences to the affected families, loved ones, the people, and the Government of Plateau State. Their immense loss is a collective grief, and we stand united in our determination to seek justice.

    “In our legislative role, we strongly condemn this reprehensible act and call upon the authorities to promptly initiate a comprehensive investigation. Allocating necessary resources to swiftly identify and apprehend the perpetrators is paramount. They must face the full force of the law, ensuring justice prevails.

    “During these trying times, unity among citizens is crucial. We must draw on our shared values of compassion, empathy, and respect to support one another and provide solace to those affected. This collective effort will foster resilience to overcome this dark chapter in our history.

    “As representatives of the people, we urge the federal government to consolidate investigation reports of similar cases, taking necessary action to prevent future occurrences.

    Read Also: CAN condemns Plateau killings, demands preventive measures

    “Moreover, let us reflect on the importance of upholding peace, unity, and understanding within our country. We must recommit to fostering an inclusive atmosphere where diversity is celebrated, and differences are resolved through dialogue and peaceful means.

    “In conclusion, we reiterate our strong condemnation of this abhorrent act of mass killing. We implore everyone to stand united against violence, support the affected families, and trust our law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice. Together, we shall prevail, and our country will emerge stronger.

    “May peace be restored to our nation, and may our hearts find solace in these challenging times.”

  • Tears as victims of Plateau attacks get mass burial

    Tears as victims of Plateau attacks get mass burial

    A mass burial has been held for the people who were killed in recent bandit attacks in Plateau state.

    The bandits had attacked different communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of the state, killing scores.

    The attacks that took place on Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area’s Ruku, Hurum, Darwat, Mai Yanga Sabo, NTV villages in Gashish, and Ropp Districts, in addition to Bokkos LGA, have been denounced by the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, which is led by Solomon Mwantiri.

    Read Also: 50 killed in attacks on Plateau communities

    NTV witnessed nine casualties, Mai Yanga Sabo had five, Darwat reported three, and Hurum had one victim.

    The surrounding villages of Bokkos were the most severely affected, with over forty people lost their lives, many more being injured, food being looted, and property being destroyed.

  • Gunmen kill 96 persons, raze 221 houses in Plateau Black Christmas eve – Police

    Gunmen kill 96 persons, raze 221 houses in Plateau Black Christmas eve – Police

    Gunmen attacked 15 communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau on Christmas eve; killed 96 persons and destroyed 221 houses.

    The assailants also destroyed eight vehicles and 27 motorcycles, police spokesman in the state, DSP Alfred Alabo, stated on Tuesday in Jos.

    “On Dec. 24, at about 10 p.m., gunmen attacked 15 villages in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas simultaneously.

    “Findings from the assessment of the incident in Bokkos revealed that the 12 villages were attacked; more than 79 persons killed and 221 houses were set ablaze.

    Read Also: 50 killed in attacks on Plateau communities

    “Twenty-seven motorcycles and eight vehicles were equally burnt down.

    “Three communities were attacked in Barkin-Ladi where 17 persons were killed.

    “Investigation and monitoring are still on and further development will be communicated soon,’’ Alabo stated.

    He listed communities attacked in Bokkos Local Government Area as Ndun, Ngyong, Murfet, Makundary, Tamiso, Chiang, Tahore, Gawarba, Dares, Meyenga, Darwat and Butura Kampani.

    Alabo stated also that communities attacked in Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area were NTV, Hurum and Darawat. (NAN)

  • 50 killed in attacks on Plateau communities

    50 killed in attacks on Plateau communities

    • Cleric, son, four church members among victims
    • Mutfwang condemns ‘wanton destruction’ of farmland, property

    A cleric, Philemon, his son Lanzy and four church members at Dares village were among the over 70 persons reportedly killed by assailants in Plateau communities on Christmas Eve.

    The Transition Committee Chairman of Bokkos Local Government,  Monday Kasa, who confirmed the attack to The Nation, said  20 villages were attacked simultaneously in the council during the midnight raid, which lasted more than three hours, adding that more than 76 people lost their lives.

    More troops have been deployed in the affected areas.

    According to our source, the incident began at about 11pm on Sunday (Christmas Eve) in a community called NTV village, situated along Bokkos Road where 11 persons were reportedly killed.

    A witness, Moses Philip, said: “We couldn’t sleep last night. Gunmen attacked our village, they killed 11 people. Our Reverend (cleric) was killed with his mother, and one of his brothers.”

    Five persons of the same biological parents were also killed. They all died due to the gun injuries they sustained.”

    At Chirang, youths were targeted, with at least 30 young lives brutally taken.

    Villages such as Butura Kampani, Fatamba, Fashar, Garau, Angwan No, Mbar, Sundul, Makundang and countless others experienced the attack, with homes burnt and families displaced.

    Police spokesman DSP Alfred Alabo told The Nation on the phone: “The Area Commander has just left Bokkos to meet the DPO. When they harmonise, they will feed us back.’

    Alabo said the area was relatively calm.

    Read Also: Black Christmas as assailants kill over 60 in Plateau communities

    “We are meeting traditional leaders to ensure it doesn’t happen again.”

    Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has condemned wanton destruction of farmland and property in the state.

    He urged Christians in Plateau and worldwide to embrace the spirit of love, peace and unity during the Christmas celebration.

    Addressing the congregation at a Christmas service held at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Number One, RCC Ampang West, in Mangu Local Government, Governor Mutfwang expressed sorrow about the recent unprovoked attacks in Mangu and Bokkos local governments where lives were lost and property destroyed.

    He called on Plateau residents, especially those directly affected, to remain resilient and steadfast in protecting the state’s heritage amid security challenges.

  • Black Christmas as assailants kill over 60 in Plateau communities

    Black Christmas as assailants kill over 60 in Plateau communities

    No fewer than sixty persons were reportedly killed by assailants in fresh attacks on three Plateau communities of Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of the state.

    The Berom Youth Moulders-Association, led by Solomon Mwantiri, has officially confirmed and strongly denounced the tragic events that happened in Ruku, Hurum, Darwat, Mai Yanga Sabo, NTV villages in Gashish, and Ropp Districts of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, as well as in Bokkos LGA, on the night of Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24.

    The tragic incident resulted in the brutal killing of at least 60 innocent people and caused significant property damage estimated in millions of naira.

    According to available information, NTV witnessed 9 casualties, Mai Yanga Sabo had 5, Darwat reported 3, and Hurum had 1 victim.

    The neighbouring villages of Bokkos suffered the most with a death toll exceeding 40, along with numerous injuries, looting of food items, and destruction of properties.

    The group said: “The BYM extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this senseless act of jihad.

    “We also wish to assure the affected communities that we stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time and will continue to advocate for justice and accountability.

    “We called on the government and relevant authorities not only to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, and bring them to justice but to swiftly come up with palliative packages as well as compensation for the victims.

    Read Also: Assailants kill 16, injure many in Plateau

    The BYM also urged the government to take immediate and decisive action to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of their ethnic or religious background.

    It stated: “We also call on the International Community to add its voice to the genocide on the Plateau which has been unabated for years.

    “The BYM want to urge all Plateau sons and daughters to put aside their differences and come together to resist terrorist elements that have taken over our ancestral lands, turning same to terrorist enclaves wherefrom armed bandits and Fulani militants have been brought and stationed to continue with the mission of annihilation, ethnic cleansing and kidnapping amongst others.

    “We must also recognize that the ongoing crisis in our dear State requires a holistic approach, which would aid in addressing the root causes of the invasion otherwise there won’t be peace and sustainable development as well as social cohesion.

    “In conclusion, the Berom nation wants to reiterate its commitment to upholding the principles of human dignity, equality, and justice and pledged to continue working with security personnel and all government agencies to ensure the promotion of peace and unity in our state.”

    The Plateau State Police Command, spokesman, DSP Alfred Alabo also confirmed the incident to The Nation on the phone.

    He said: “The DPO and Area Commander, Pankshin, are still combing the area. The attack was done simultaneously because the area is vast. Now we have to wait for them, to give us proper feedback, before the full report.

    “As such, we are still combing the area to ascertain the level of destruction, while some people have been confirmed to be missing and anything, after now we will be able to give a proper statement.”

  • Yuletide: Plateau CP bans tricycle, fireworks, assures tight security

    Yuletide: Plateau CP bans tricycle, fireworks, assures tight security

    As Christmas and New Year celebrations draw near, the police in Plateau State have assured residents of adequate security of lives and property.

    The Police Command has also banned the operation of tricycles otherwise known as Keke NAPEP ahead of the festivities.

    It also stated that the ban on the use of motorcycles otherwise known as Okada is still in force within the Jos and Bukuru metropolis.

    The Commissioner of Police, Julius Alawari also assured the public of proactive and adequate security ahead of the celebrations.

    The Command in a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Alfred Alabo, explained: “In a bid to ensure utmost security and the safety of Plateau State and its residents, the Commissioner of Police, CP Okoro Alawari, has emplaced adequate security measures in all parts of the state to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

    On this note, we wish to inform residents of the State that there will be increased security presence within the State. This is however, only for the purpose of ensuring a peaceful and hitch-free celebration, and not to intimidate any person or cause panic.

    Read Also: Gunmen kill 19-year-old, injure two in Plateau

    In the same vein, the CP has placed a ban on the trading and use of fireworks, knockouts, firecrackers, and all other pyrotechnics within the State. He said the ban became necessary, considering the potential of such fireworks to cause disturbances, anxiety, fear among members of the public, and create opportunities for criminal activities.

    The CP urged the good and peace loving people of the State to be vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in fighting crime and criminality.

    He advised all traditional/religious rulers, parents and guardians to “monitor your followers, children/wards and discourage them from the use of fireworks during the festive season,” adding that anyone caught violating any of these bans will be severely dealt with in accordance with the extant laws.

  • Gunmen kill 19-year-old, injure two in Plateau

    Gunmen kill 19-year-old, injure two in Plateau

    Gunmen have reportedly killed a 19- year-old, Jude Nicodemus, and injured two others at Gana Ropp village in Barkin Ladi Local Government of Plateau State.

    Sources said the incident occurred on Wednesday night around 8pm.

    The Nation reports that this is one among the recent renewed attacks and killings without any form of provocation in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos and Mangu by the hoodlums, who have vowed to disrupt peace during the Yuletide.

    The tragic incident, among others, occurred, following security intelligence, which showed that militant groups had vowed to resume hostilities in villages and communities during the Christmas celebrations.

    Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM), under the leadership of Solomon Dalyop Mwantiri, Esq., condemned the recent killings in some parts of Plateau State and called on security outfits, particularly ‘Operation Safe Haven-OPSH’, under the able and patriotic command of Maj.-Gen. A. E. Abdulsallam, who is also the GOC 3rd Armoured Division, to redouble efforts in combating resurgence of acts of terrorism, and flush out the terrorists that are said to have been stationed on the hills of Were in Ropp of Barkin Ladi Local Government and some parts of Plateau. 

    Berom Youth Movement (BYM) 

    Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, who confirmed the incident to The Nation, also commended the rapid response of Sector 4 Commander, Col. US Abdulsallam, for his swift action that forestalled further casualties in the general area. 

    Read Also: PSC fixes date for screening of 416,270 police constable

    BYM sympathised with the families that lost their beloved ones in the recent unprovocative attacks and appealed to the public to be more vigilant before, during and after the festive season.

    BYM appealed for calmness, and called on the federal, state and local governments as well as other relevant bodies to come to the aid (hospital bills) of the deceased’s families and those injured, to ameliorate the plight they have been plunged into and ensure restorative justice is served.

    Spokesman for Operation Safe Haven, (OPSH) in-charge of maintaining peace in Plateau and part of Kaduna states, Capt. James Oya, confirmed the incident to The Nation on the phone.

    He said: “I confirm the incident, it happened. What happened is that the incident would have been a disaster.

    “The assailants that came opened fire on those making preparation and also celebrating and holding Christmas Carol at that moment. One person was killed.”

    He added that because of the quick intervention of the troops, the assailants could not continue their mission. “Unfortunately, one person lost his life and other people were injured. The injured ones have been taken to hospital.”

    Oya said three days ago, some bandits and kidnappers were arrested at that axis. “As I speak, the commander informed me that the troops are conducting aggressive raid in that area.”

  • Plateau: Youth group drums support for Hon Yakubu Dati

    Plateau: Youth group drums support for Hon Yakubu Dati

    A group under the auspices of Southern Plateau Concerned APC Youths have drummed support for Hon Yakubu Dati  as a worthy replacement to the outgoing Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong.

    In a statement, the leader of the group, Rad. Toma Mathias Dilyep, explained that the choice of Hon Yakubu Dati will complement the development stride of the present administration based on his track records .

    He said: “Hon Yakubu Dati is an icon of diligent services, professionalism per excellence, and an epitome of hope to the youthful generation.”

    “It is impressive to call on the attention of the general public regarding the positive growth Hon. Yakubu Dati  brought to Plateau state and Nigeria at large.

    “He is an administrator and equally a politician who is vibrant, hardworking, full of empathy and gratitude. “

    “Dati is a dynamic leader whose efforts for greatness is boundless in all substantial areas of endeavours and ramifications of life.

    “Yakubu Dati, was born in Jos, Plateau State, North-Central Nigeria. He graduated from University of Jos where he had obtained a degree in Theatre Arts in 1986, aside that, he also holds a Masters degree in International Law and Diplomacy and a Diploma in Airport Operations.”

    “In 1999, Yakubu Dati became Chairman of Mikang Local Government Council and in 2001 he was appointed Hon. Commissioner of Sports by the Joshua Dariye-led Plateau State government.”

    Read Also: A’Court judge defends judgment sacking Plateau PDP Lawmakers

    “Hon. Dati became Commissioner for Information in 2003. Hon. Yakubu Dati after leaving the Plateau State government had served as the General Manager Corporate Communications, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria.

    “He also briefly served as a Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of State in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in 2005.

    “Because of his integrity, influence and wealth of experience, He came back in Plateau State for his third stint as a Commissioner and oversees affairs at the Plateau State Ministry of Information and has done a great job handling Governor Simon Lalong’s public image and that of the Plateau State government before moving to Ministry for land, survey and town planning as a commissioner.”

  • A’Court judge defends judgment sacking Plateau PDP Lawmakers

    A’Court judge defends judgment sacking Plateau PDP Lawmakers

    • By: Ahmed Rufa’i

    A judge of the Court of Appeal, Justice Abdulaziz Waziri, has defended the judgment that sacked National Assembly members elected under the ticket of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State.

    Justice Waziri, who addressed participants at the 2023 Law Week in Yola, the Adamawa State capital on Tuesday, said critics of the judgment were missing the point as the party had no structure on ground at the point of presenting their candidates.

    According to the judge, who said he was a member of the panel that decided the case, the case against the PDP in Plateau State was not a pre-election matter. He urged the bar and the bench to always stand on the side of the law.

    “Some people may say it was a pre-election, agreed. On issues of qualification, elections can be both pre and post-election matters depending on what you may understand as qualification. The issue in Plateau State is not a pre-election matter per say,” the judge stated.

    Read Also: Hoodlums kill four in Plateau community

    “There was a subsisting court order given by the Plateau State High Court that PDP should go and have their congresses on that day. They flouted they order of that court, they appealed to the Court of Appeal, they could repeal the decision of the lower court, they file an appeal to the Supreme Court, they failed to pursue the appeal and that appeal was dismissed by the Supreme Court.

    “So, the matter as it stood at that time is that they had no structures on ground. So, any candidate they have fielded would have no place to stand in the eyes of the law, so that is what happened,” Justice Waziri said.

    Also speaking at the event, the Chief Judge of Adamawa State, Justice Hassan Abdul Rahman, described corruption as a major problem.

    Governor of Adamawa State, Umaru Fintiri, who was represented at the event by the Commissioner of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Reintegration, Hammandiram Bello, lamented the lack of understanding of the judiciary by most Nigerians.

  • Plateau central lobbies for Lalong’s job

    Plateau central lobbies for Lalong’s job

    Indigenes of Plateau state who are from the central geopolitical zone have commenced lobby for the job of minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong who was recently declared winner of the Plateau South senatorial district election.

    Lalong, who was declared winner by the Appeal Court, has received his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission.  

    It was reported that the minister may quit the Federal Executive Council and go to the Senate. 

    The indegenes argued that Plateau Central has only produced one minister – Amb Bagudu Hirse. 

    A statement by Plateau Central Youth Group Organisation signed by its chairman, Jerry Jankanwa, urged people of the state to support the zone (Plateau Central) to produce Lalong’s replacement should the minister decides to go to the Senate. 

    Read Also: Lalong to Senators: Strikes will stop if Labour Ministry is well-funded

    The group made a case for David Kasuwa Bitrus to fill Plateau state slot at FEC.

    They said: “This is a clarion call on plateau stakeholders to be on the same page in strengthening democracy through community engagement and participatory democracy. 

    “Thus, Hon David Kasuwa Bitrus is fit and proper to replace His Excellency Rt Hon Simon Bako Lalong as minister in the president Tinubu presidency where he will bring his wealth of experience and bridge the gap between the old and the young in governance.”