Plateau Attacks: NSA Vows Justice

Plateau Attacks: NSA Vows Justice as Death Toll Rises

JOS — The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has assured that the federal government is taking decisive action to address the recent security breaches in Plateau State, where coordinated attacks have left over 52 people dead and many more displaced. Ribadu’s statement comes as part of a broader effort to restore peace and ensure justice for the victims of the tragic events in Bokkos Local Government Area.

Background of the Attacks

1. Violence in Bokkos:
   • The attacks, which began on March 27, 2025, and continued into early April, targeted communities in the Bokkos Local Government Area, including Ruwi, Mangor, Daffo, Manguna, Hurti, and Tadai. The violence resulted in significant loss of life and property destruction.
2. Death Toll and Displacement:
   • At least 52 people have been confirmed dead, with reports indicating that over 1,820 individuals have been displaced from their homes. Five persons are still reported missing in Hurti, and several others are receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the attacks.

NSA’s Assurance

1. Federal Intervention:
   • Ribadu, during his operational visit to Plateau State, emphasized the government’s commitment to apprehending those responsible for the attacks and ensuring they face justice. He praised the timely response of security agencies in curtailing the violence.
2. Call for Peace:
   • The NSA urged residents to prioritize peace and unity, appealing to the media to report sensitive incidents with due diligence and transparency.

Government Response

1. President Tinubu’s Stance:
   • President Bola Tinubu condemned the attacks, directing security agencies to hunt down the perpetrators and promising severe punishment under the law. He also extended condolences to the families of the victims and pledged support to Governor Caleb Mutfwang in ending the violence.
2. NEMA’s Relief Efforts:
   • The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been working closely with state authorities to provide relief to affected communities and support rebuilding efforts. NEMA has established three displacement camps in Daffo, Hurti, and Gwande to accommodate the displaced.

Survivors’ Accounts

1. Harrowing Experiences:
   • Survivors described the attacks as sudden and devastating, with many forced to flee for their lives. Tariza Jakob from Hurti village recounted: “We were living in peace, with no provocation. Then gunmen on motorcycles arrived, shooting indiscriminately. We ran for our lives, children alongside us. We had nowhere to hide. Many were killed. Our homes were burnt. We call on the government to help us. We will never forgive the attackers”.
2. Community Impact:
   • Banghas Atanguk from Manguna shared his experience: “At about 3:45 p.m., while going about our normal activities, we heard gunshots from different directions. People ran in all directions. Some escaped, others didn’t. I lost my uncle, Simon Bahias, a school principal. We are alive, but uncertain of what tomorrow holds. The security forces are trying, but they are not enough”.

Reactions from Stakeholders

1. ACF’s Call to Action:
   • The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) urged the federal government to declare a state of security emergency in vulnerable communities and implement early-warning systems to prevent future attacks.
2. Governor Mutfwang’s Commitment:
   • Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attacks, vowing to protect Plateau’s people and heritage. He described the violence as part of a broader cycle of unrest linked to land disputes and cattle rustling.

Conclusion

The recent attacks in Plateau State have sparked widespread condemnation and calls for urgent action to restore peace. As the NSA and other government officials vow to bring perpetrators to justice, the focus remains on preventing future violence and rebuilding affected communities.