Plateau Residents Blast Mutfwang Over Rising Killings, Demand Action Beyond Condolence Messages

Residents in Plateau State have criticised Governor Caleb Mutfwang over the recent wave of killings, urging his administration to take stronger security measures instead of repeatedly issuing condolence messages after attacks.

The criticism followed a bloody weekend in which about 21 people were reportedly killed between Friday, September 11, and Sunday, September 13, in attacks across Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Jos South Local Government Areas.

Mutfwang condemned the killings in a statement on Monday and said his administration remained committed to protecting lives and restoring peace across the state.

The governor said the attacks occurred as the government continued to work with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen the state’s security architecture through dialogue, intelligence sharing and community engagement.

He also assured residents that security agencies were tracking those responsible for the attacks and would bring them to justice, while promising to create an environment where citizens could farm, travel, invest and conduct their businesses without fear.

However, residents who participated in a radio programme on Monday evening expressed frustration with the government’s response. Several callers said they were tired of what they described as repeated statements of condemnation and assurances that had not stopped the attacks.

Social activist Nanle Bamshak accused the governor of failing to give adequate attention to the security crisis and alleged that his focus had shifted towards his political future ahead of the 2027 elections.

“I am highly and seriously disappointed by Gov. Caleb Mutfwang, especially in his handling of security issues in the state,” Bamshak said, adding that residents who supported the governor expected his administration to tackle the violence more decisively.

Another caller, Peter Alamba, said residents needed concrete security measures rather than what he described as “regular and rhetorical press statements and condolence messages” whenever people were killed.

Polycarp Bitrus also criticised the governor’s handling of the insecurity, alleging that communities were being attacked while the administration continued to issue similar statements after each incident.

John Fadung, who said he supported Mutfwang during the 2023 election, also expressed disappointment with the governor and accused him of prioritising political interests over the security concerns of residents.

The callers’ remarks reflect growing public frustration over the continued violence in parts of Plateau State, even as the state government maintains that it is working with security and community stakeholders to strengthen peace and security.