A mob has killed 12 passengers of an interstate commercial bus in Mangun District of Mangu LGA, Plateau state.
The incident took place at about 6pm on Friday.
The victims were said to have been travelling from Zaria in Kaduna state to Quan’pan LGA in Plateau for a wedding.
They reportedly lost their way and were ambushed by a mob in Mangun.
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Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau governor, described the mob action as “totally condemnable and avoidable”.
He said although Mangun and adjoining districts had suffered “coordinated terrorist assaults” in recent months, there was no justification for “such a senseless act against innocent commuters”.
“Today is a tragic day for us in Plateau state. I never imagined such a senseless act of violence could occur within our borders, especially considering the commendable efforts of our youths in this community and neighbouring districts who have consistently risen to support security agencies in defending against criminal incursions,” the governor said at the scene of the incident.
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“It is deeply disheartening that the same youths who have shown courage and patriotism would turn around and take the law into their own hands. This is utterly unacceptable, and the government will not sweep it under the carpet. We are working to build a Plateau that is welcoming to all and hospitable to visitors. We have been educating our young people about the importance of allowing free passage on all roads across the state, and this incident has come to us as a rude shock.
“I want to reassure Nigerians that Plateau remains a safe place for all travelers. I have spoken with my colleague, the Executive Governor of Kaduna state, to brief him on this unfortunate incident. I have also reached out to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, to express my heartfelt condolences over this tragic loss of lives. In the spirit of solidarity, we will be sending a high-level delegation to commiserate with the Government and people of Kaduna state as well as the Zazzau Emirate.”
The governor extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the government and people of Kaduna.
He directed security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that justice is served.
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