TheCable

Simon Lalong, governor of Plateau, has begged the government and residents of Ondo for forgiveness following recent attack on their people.

On August 14, 22 travellers from Ondo passing through Jos were reportedly killed along Rukuba road in Jos north LGA, Plateau state.

The travellers were said to consist of worshippers, who were on their way to Ondo state after attending the annual zikr prayer in Bauchi, when they were attacked.

Lalong apologised for the attack through his deputy, Sonny Tyoden, who led a delegation from the state to Ondo for a condolence visit, and to formally deliver the survivors of the unfortunate attacks.

The apology is contained in a statement by Makut Macham, the governor’s director of press and public affairs, on Saturday in Jos.

Tyoden said the visit was to convey the condolences and apologies of the government and people of Plateau to their families as well as the entire people of Ondo state.

“We pray for forgiveness on behalf of those who did it. Arrests have been made, and as of now, we have 25 people under arrest. I can assure you, investigation will go on,” he said.

“I can assure you that due process will be followed. The law will take its course and they will pay for what they have done.”

He said Lalong has been distressed by the incident, which is an attempt to jeopardise the substantial peace restored in the last six years since his assumption of office in the state.

Tyoden assured that the state government was committed to protecting lives and properties of all Nigerians, saying that the culprits involved will be brought to book as many arrests have been made.

Responding, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, thanked Lalong for his quick intervention and other proactive measures taken to prevent the situation from escalating.

Represented by his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the governor said on receiving the news, he immediately went to the cattle market to sympathise with the leadership of the Fulani brethren over the incident.

He said that his administration was concerned on the welfare of all citizens irrespective of their backgrounds, and appreciated his colleague for sending a high level delegation to accompany their people back home.

Tyoden was accompanied by the emir of Wase, Mohammed Haruna; Yoruba community leader in Plateau, Jide Olagbemiro, and Nura Mohammad, Plateau chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in Nigeria (MACBAN).