Mutfwang bans night grazing, restricts motorcycles over attacks

Caleb Mutfwang, governor of Plateau, has announced a ban on night grazing and restricted the use of motorcycles across the state following incessant attacks.

At least 50 people were reportedly killed after gunmen invaded Kimakpa village, Miango district, in Bassa LGA of the state on April 14.

The attack came barely two weeks after gunmen killed many residents in five communities in Bokkos and Mangu LGAs.

Homes were torched, properties destroyed and several persons sustained injuries.

Speaking in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, the governor also prohibited the transportation of cattle by vehicles after 7pm.

Mutfwang said the directives take immediate effect, with the restriction on motorcycle use in place from 7pm to 6am across the state until further notice.

He described the killings as “coordinated acts of terror” intended to displace residents and deny them their right to live peacefully on ancestral lands.

“The tragic echoes of Dogo Na Hawa, Riyom, Barkin-Ladi, Mangu, and the Christmas Eve massacres in Bokkos remain vivid. The cycle continues, but it must not endure. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH,” the governor said.

“As your governor, I stand resolved — Plateau shall not be overrun by fear, nor shall we accept this culture of bloodshed as the new normal.

“My administration is intensifying efforts to protect our people and enforce the rule of law across all local governments.

“I hereby announce the following measures, effective Wednesday, April 16: Night grazing of cattle is strictly prohibited; transportation of cattle by vehicle is banned after 7pm.

“The use of motorcycles is restricted from 7pm to 6am across the state until further notice.”

The Plateau governor said communities must be actively involved in defending themselves within the confines of the law.

“We are also activating community-based response systems,” he said.

“I urge traditional leaders and youth associations to reactivate local vigilante groups and organise night patrols in coordination with the security agencies.

“We must protect our communities while upholding the rule of law.”

Mutfwang directed the inter-religious council to engage stakeholders and said a peace envoy will be appointed for grassroots consultations and intelligence coordination.

The governor said a fact-finding committee made up of respected, independent voices will be set up to probe the root cause of the violence and make actionable recommendations.

“Let it be known: the Plateau spirit is resilient. We are a people of peace, renowned for our hospitality and unity across religious and ethnic lines. Those who seek to tear us apart must not succeed,” he said.

“To the killers and their sponsors, know this: your evil shall not go unpunished. You may run, but you will not hide. Plateau will rise. Plateau will prevail.”

He said medical agencies have been directed to treat victims at no cost, while displaced persons are receiving relief materials and food supplies.

Mutfwang appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his assurance of full support to the state, noting that temporary shelters have also been provided for displaced persons.

He also asked residents to remain calm and vigilant, share credible information with security agents and avoid jungle justice.