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

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.