Hussaini Kafi in Kano
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the latest round of violence in Plateau State, which claimed the lives of over 40 people, describing it as a senseless tragedy that must be brought to an end.
In a statement released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed deep sorrow over the bloodshed and extended his heartfelt condolences to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the government, and the people of Plateau State.
While condemning the violence in strong terms, President Tinubu called on Governor Mutfwang to summon the political will necessary to resolve the long-standing communal tensions that have repeatedly plunged the state into crisis.
“The ongoing violence between communities in Plateau State, rooted in misunderstandings between different ethnic and religious groups, must cease,” President Tinubu said. “Enough is enough.”
He stressed the importance of unity and mutual respect among Plateau’s diverse communities, urging spiritual, political, and community leaders to rise above religious and ethnic divides and commit to ending the retaliatory attacks that have devastated lives and livelihoods across the state.
President Tinubu disclosed that he has instructed security agencies to conduct thorough investigations to uncover and prosecute those behind the attacks. He noted that addressing the criminal elements alone would not suffice without confronting the deeper, systemic issues fueling the violence.
“Beyond dealing with the criminal elements of these incessant killings, the political leadership in Plateau State, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, must address the root cause of this age-long problem,” the President stated. “These problems have been with us for more than two decades. We can no longer ignore the underlying issues.”
Tinubu added that he has previously discussed the crisis with Governor Mutfwang and offered suggestions for achieving long-term peace. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting Plateau State in promoting dialogue, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring accountability.
The latest attack is one in a series of recurring violence that has plagued Plateau State for years, driven by complex ethnic, religious, and political dynamics. As security forces continue efforts to restore order, residents of the affected communities are once again left to pick up the pieces and mourn their loved ones.
