Plateau Attack: Inuwa Yahaya Condemns Killings, Backs Mutfwang’s Response

By Jamila Muhammad

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has condemned the attack in Angwan Rukuba, in the Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing the killings as a painful setback to peace and security in Northern Nigeria.

Mr. Yahaya, also the chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), called the incident unfortunate, condemnable, and inconsistent with the region’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.

The position was contained in a statement issued by the Director-General of Press Affairs, Government House Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, and made available to journalists in Gombe.

The governor spoke shortly after the NSGF quarterly meeting held at the Gombe State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, where northern governors reviewed the security situation across the region and renewed their commitment to tackling insecurity and other shared challenges.

He said the latest violence in Plateau State further demonstrated the need for sustained vigilance, stronger intelligence gathering and deeper collaboration with security agencies to forestall similar attacks.

Mr. Yahaya said the North has for generations been known for tolerance, brotherhood, and mutual respect among diverse ethnic and religious groups, warning that acts of violence, such as the Angwan Rukuba attack, must not be allowed to define the region.

He called on residents of Plateau State, especially those in the affected communities, to remain calm and avoid reprisals that could worsen the situation.

According to him, emotional reactions and retaliatory actions would only deepen the crisis and make it more difficult for security agencies and leaders to restore normalcy.

The governor also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and community stakeholders to unite and support efforts aimed at preserving peace in the state.

Mr Yahaya commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for what he described as a swift and responsible response to the attack, particularly the imposition of a 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area and the immediate deployment of security personnel to restore order.

He said the action taken by the Plateau State Government showed leadership and a clear determination to protect lives and prevent further escalation.

“I commend my brother governor, His Excellency Caleb Mutfwang, for the prompt actions taken to contain the situation and restore calm. These timely measures are critical in preventing further breakdown of law and order,” he said.

The NSGF chairman said northern governors would continue to support the military and other security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional duties.

He added that the forum remained united in strengthening regional cooperation against crime, communal violence and other threats to peace and development in the North.

Mr. Yahaya also expressed confidence in the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attack.

He extended condolences to the government and people of Plateau State, especially families who lost loved ones in the attack, and prayed for the repose of the dead as well as the speedy recovery of those injured.

Gov. Inuwa Joins El-Rufai Family, Northern Leaders for Late Hajiya Umma’s Janazah in Abuja

By Ahmed Mohammed

Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya joined family members, political leaders, and mourners at the National Mosque in Abuja on Sunday for the Janazah prayer of the late Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the mother of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai.

Mr Yahaya, who also chairs the Northern States Governors’ Forum, described the death of the late matriarch as a painful and irreplaceable loss, especially for her children and loved ones.

After the funeral prayer, the governor expressed his condolences to Mr El-Rufai and the entire family, stating that the death of a mother creates a void that is often challenging to fill.

He said the late Hajiya Umma would be remembered for the values she represented and the legacy she left behind, a family built on discipline, service, and a strong moral upbringing.

According to him, she lived a life marked by humility, compassion and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that endeared her to many and shaped the lives of those around her.

Mr Yahaya noted that beyond her immediate family, her passing would be felt by many who came in contact with her and drew inspiration from her quiet strength and character.

The governor, on behalf of the government and people of Gombe State, as well as the Northern States Governors’ Forum, extended condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for comfort in their moment of grief.

He urged them to take solace in the exemplary life she lived and the lasting impact she made during her lifetime.

He also prayed to Allah to forgive her shortcomings, accept her noble deeds, and grant her eternal rest at Aljannat Firdaus.

Kebbi Governor Visits Fallen Troops, Vows Support After Deadly Bandit Ambush

By Abdullahi Tukur, Birnin Kebbi

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris on Tuesday paid a solemn visit to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Birnin Kebbi, where the bodies of security personnel killed in a deadly bandit ambush in Giron Masa village, Shanga Local Government Area, were deposited.

The governor later proceeded to the scene of the attack, pledging renewed support for security agencies battling criminal elements in the state.

The attack claimed the lives of nine soldiers, one Mobile Police officer and a civilian. The victims were ambushed while responding to a distress call aimed at protecting residents from an impending bandit assault.

At the FMC, Governor Idris was received by the Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Ashiru Ladan, who led him to the mortuary where the slain officers were kept. He also visited two injured personnel receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.

Visibly shaken by the tragedy, the governor described the incident as a painful loss.

“This is a painful and unfortunate tragedy for Kebbi State and for our nation. These brave men died while defending innocent citizens, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” he said.

He added, “They were gallant officers who answered the call of duty with courage and patriotism. They paid the supreme price in service to humanity and to Nigeria.”

Governor Idris directed the hospital to provide the best care for the injured personnel.

“I have directed that the injured personnel must receive the best medical attention available. The Kebbi State Government will take full responsibility for their treatment,” he assured.

He also pledged support for the families of the deceased.

“We will not abandon the families of those who lost their lives in active service. Government will stand by them in this difficult moment,” he said.

From the hospital, the governor moved to Giron Masa village, where he inspected the military vehicle destroyed during the ambush, describing the development as heartbreaking.

“From what we have gathered, the security personnel moved out to stop an attack on innocent residents, but sadly they were lured into a deadly ambush by the bandits,” he explained.

Governor Idris said the incident highlights the risks faced daily by security personnel and stressed the need for sustained support.

“This sad incident will not weaken our resolve. We will continue to support the military, the police and all other security agencies operating in Kebbi State,” he said.

He further disclosed plans to meet with top military authorities.

“I will proceed to Abuja to personally meet the Chief of Army Staff and formally convey the condolences of the Government and people of Kebbi State over this painful loss,” he added.

The governor also promised to replace the destroyed military vehicle.

“The destroyed military vehicle will be replaced by the Kebbi State Government as part of our support to the security agencies,” he said.

He urged security operatives not to lose morale despite the setback.

“I want to urge our security personnel not to be discouraged by this attack. They must remain resolute, professional and committed to protecting lives and property,” he said.

At Giron Masa, the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Zayyanu Abdullahi, expressed concern over the recurring security challenges.

“What happened is deeply disturbing and painful. We must improve intelligence gathering, reconnaissance and the use of modern technology such as drones if we are to reduce casualties and strengthen security operations,” the monarch said.

He commended the governor for his swift response.

“We appreciate the governor for coming personally to see the situation. His visit is a clear sign of concern and solidarity with the people and the security agencies,” he added.

The governor later offered prayers for the fallen personnel and the injured.

“We pray Almighty Allah to forgive the souls of the departed officers and grant quick recovery to those receiving treatment,” he said.