Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has addressed persistent security challenges in Bokkos Local Government Area of the state describing the recent attacks resulting in the loss of lives and property as a deliberate act of genocide aimed at land grabbing.
The governor who spoke to newsmen, some of the attackers disguise as herdsmen, moving cattle as cover, while carrying sophisticated arms.
He added that no fewer than 64 communities in Bokkos, Barkin-Ladi, and Riyom LGAs have been taken over by bandits. These lands have been renamed and are now occupied by strangers, while the original inhabitants remain displaced.
According to the governor, “These attacks weren’t reprisal in nature. Given this pattern, I have no choice but to conclude that these are terrorist organizations deliberately targeting our people. The land in question is very fertile—rich in food produce and mineral deposits.
“We’ve observed a pattern over the years: at the beginning of the farming season, communities are attacked and destabilized so that they can’t plant. If they manage to farm, another wave of attacks occurs during harvest”, he added.
Mutfwang lamented the breakdown of relative peace recorded following concerted efforts.
“We’ve been intervening to help communities resist such intimidation. We’ve deployed Agro-Rangers from the Civil Defence Corps, equipped them with motorcycles, and armed them to protect farmers.
“This strategy contributed to a stretch of relative peace since December 2023. Unfortunately, this current attack has shattered that peace”.
The governor assured that the both the state and federal governments have intensified surveillance, increased security personnel and deployed more assets to the affected areas.
