Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau State governor has tendered a heartfelt apology to the people of Bassa Local Government Area following a brutal attack in the Zikke community of Kwall district that claimed 51 lives.
The assault, which occurred early Monday morning, saw dozens killed and several homes destroyed, echoing a similar tragedy that took place just two weeks earlier in Bokkos LGA where over 50 people were killed.
During a condolence visit to the area on Tuesday, the governor admitted government failure in preventing the carnage, despite prior investments in security.
At the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Miango, a visibly emotional Mutfwang expressed deep sorrow, stating, “I want to admit that on Sunday night into Monday morning, we failed you. Please, forgive me.”
He urged the community to continue supporting security efforts and not lose faith in protecting their homes. Emphasising that security is a shared duty.
Mutfwang called for greater cooperation with law enforcement, especially in intelligence gathering to help prevent further attacks.
Governor Mutfwang, who described the killings as genocidal, warned that organised groups with a land-grabbing agenda were behind the violence.
According to him, more than 64 communities in Plateau have been forcefully taken over and renamed by armed elements, intensifying fears of a deeper crisis.
Ronku Aka, the Paramount Ruler of Irigwe land appealed to the government to increase support for victims and invest in rebuilding social infrastructure in affected communities.
He stressed the need for sustained efforts to rehabilitate displaced families and restore peace.
