Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has voiced serious concerns over attempts to destabilize the state’s peace.
He has accused individuals of inciting violence by bringing outsiders from neighboring states to create chaos during the recent “End Bad Governance” protests in Jos.
In a broadcast addressing the current situation on Tuesday, Governor Mutfwang praised the youth for their peaceful conduct during the protests.
He highlighted that their behavior has garnered admiration both nationally and internationally, showcasing a return of peace to Plateau State.
The governor emphasized that the state’s history of strife does not reflect its true nature but is rather the result of external forces attempting to undermine its unity.
He expressed confidence in the resilience and peaceful character of the people of Plateau.
“I am glad we have decided to live as brothers because that is who we are, irrespective of our diversity,” Governor Mutfwang said. “This is our moment and opportunity to chart a new course for ourselves as we confront the common enemy of poverty, the bottom line of our collective anger. As you know, I am a man of very humble beginnings without any arrogant human credentials to be your governor.”
Governor Mutfwang mentioned that despite unnecessary impediments, the state government has utilized every opportunity, both locally and internationally, to seek wisdom and partnerships to build a Plateau economy based on the rule of law, equity, justice, and inclusion.
He expressed confidence that the state’s investment in agriculture will soon yield the desired results and lay a strong foundation for the Plateau economy.
He appealed for more patience and understanding from the people.
“While focusing on intermediate and long-term strategies, we know that families are going through difficult times,” he acknowledged. “That is why we have, in conjunction with the federal government and local governments, made efforts to reduce the suffering by administering some palliatives. We will continue to seek more effective ways of procuring and administering these palliatives to some of the most vulnerable groups, irrespective of political persuasion or involvement. I promise to do all in my power to alleviate your sufferings and make life better for all citizens.”
Governor Mutfwang also implored the youth to suspend the protests in order to add value to their thinking and plans for poverty alleviation, stressing that the government does not possess a monopoly on wisdom.
He added that the state will meet with various youth leaders for dialogue once the protests are over.
He cautioned that the longer the protests continue, the greater the likelihood of them being hijacked by sponsored criminals and hoodlums, as had been experienced since Sunday evening.
“Based on the intelligence at our disposal, we know the lawful protests have been infiltrated by criminals who were waiting for an opportunity to loot shops, attack, and rob innocent citizens of their hard-earned belongings,” Governor Mutfwang said. “We even saw the display of foreign flags by some of these criminally minded intruders. So, as a responsible government, we had to take proactive steps to prevent further acts of criminality; thus, the 24-hour curfew we imposed on Jos-Bukuru metropolis starting from Sunday midnight.”
Governor Mutfwang warned that the government would not tolerate actions that disrupt the peace and security of the state.
He urged individuals and groups planning to cause unrest to reconsider their actions, as security agencies are on high alert to address any such threats decisively.
