Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has described the recent attacks in Bokkos Local Government Area as acts of genocide orchestrated by terrorist groups seeking to displace local communities and take over fertile land and mineral-rich territories.
Speaking during a televised interview monitored in Jos, the governor noted that the attackers, whom he described as terrorists, operate under the guise of herders and are heavily armed.
He lamented that despite efforts by security agencies, the attackers continue to carry out coordinated assaults, citing the recent invasion of Ruwi community where mourners were ambushed in broad daylight.
“These attacks are not reprisals; they are deliberate attempts to wipe out entire communities.
“It is genocide aimed at land grabbing,” Mutfwang stated, adding that over 64 communities in Bokkos, Barkin-Ladi, and Riyom have been taken over and renamed by the invaders.
The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for showing concern and mobilising security operatives to the affected areas, even while abroad.
He also praised the efforts of the Inspector General of Police, Chief of Army Staff, and other top security chiefs who have deployed more personnel and resources to the state.
Despite these interventions, Mutfwang said challenges persist due to the reactive nature of federal security operations and called for the establishment of state police to enable more proactive and community-focused responses.
He expressed concern over the presence of illegal miners and arms dealers in occupied areas, noting that some suspects previously arrested were mysteriously released.
He called for a coordinated intelligence effort to identify sponsors of the ongoing violence.
The governor also confirmed that intelligence reports suggest the attackers often do not speak any known Nigerian language and may be foreigners crossing into Plateau from neighboring states.
“This is more than a local crisis; it’s a national security threat,” Mutfwang said, reiterating his call for modern ranching practices to help reduce cross-border banditry and expose criminal elements hiding under the guise of open grazing.
He concluded by assuring residents of his continued determination to restore peace and justice across the state.
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