Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has urged security agencies to revise their operational tactics in response to renewed violent attacks in parts of the state.
Mutfwang made the call on Wednesday during a visit to Bindi community in Sopp, Riyom Local Government Area, where gunmen had killed 27 residents in an early morning attack on Tuesday.
The attackers also razed houses, destroyed farmlands, and caused property losses running into millions of naira.
Visibly distraught by the destruction, the governor called on security agencies to intensify efforts in protecting lives and property.
“It is very sad that we got intelligence for this attack, yet the attack still happened,” he said.
“I’m calling on the security agencies to redouble their efforts; we need to reappraise our strategy and tactics. We cannot continue like this, and by the grace of God, we will soon bring this to an end.”
He directed that those responsible for the attack must be apprehended and prosecuted.
“The perpetrators of the act must be arrested; the era of unknown gunmen is over. Let’s get hold of them; I must use them to teach those who perpetuate this criminality a lesson,” Mutfwang said.
“Let me remind our security agencies again, you are not here for peacekeeping, you are here to defend the lives and property of Nigerians. Anybody that is threatening the lives of Nigerians is an enemy of the state and must be dealt with accordingly.”
The governor urged residents of the affected communities to remain law-abiding, adding that the government would organise a coordinated burial for the deceased and provide relief to those who lost homes and property.
Earlier, Ezekiel Davou, Youth Leader of the community, appreciated the governor’s visit, describing it as a morale booster for the people.
He said the attack occurred at about 3:00 a.m. and affected eight hamlets.
Davou appealed to the state government to support the rebuilding of destroyed homes, affirming that villagers had resolved to stay and defend their land.
The governor also visited Gwareng and Bachi communities in Riyom LGA, which had recently suffered similar attacks.
(NAN)