Plateau State governor, Barr Caleb Mutfwang, has directed security agencies to intensify operations and go after the perpetrators of Sunday night’s deadly attack on Ratatis community in Dorowa Babuje, Barkin Ladi local government area, which claimed the lives of some rural dwellers.
The attackers hit residents at a relaxation spot, leaving at least nine people dead and several others injured.
The death toll in related coordinated attacks in nearby areas, including Jol in Riyom LGA, has risen to 12 as more bodies were recovered on Monday.
The Plateau State government, in a statement signed by the commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, described the incidents as a setback amid recent gains in peace through dialogue and community engagement.
The state government also condemned the “barbaric and senseless” killings in strong terms and ordered security forces to bolster their presence in the affected and surrounding communities to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice.
“A joint search and rescue team involving security operatives and government officials has been deployed to assist victims, account for missing persons, and stabilise the area.”
“Injured survivors are receiving treatment at nearby health facilities, with the state monitoring their progress closely”, the statement reads.
Governor Mutfwang expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the recovery of the wounded.
Residents have been urged to stay calm, remain vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by sharing credible information to aid investigations.
Gov Mutfwang reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, promising additional proactive steps to prevent further breaches and sustain relative peace across the state.
Meanwhile, fear gripped residents of Jos, the Plateau State capital, and its environs on Tuesday morning, as many shops and businesses remained closed in parts of the metropolis due to the incident.
Residents and traders in areas such as Gangare, Zololo Junction, Gadan Bako, and Katako expressed fears of reprisals and escalating violence, forcing them to stay at home.
LEADERSHIP investigation revealed that only a few shops were open in the city centre.
Alhaji Kamal Busari, a businessman in Farin Gada, told our correspondent that “I did not open my shop early on Tuesday because of the fear of the unknown.”
Jireh Misal, a postgraduate student at the University of Jos, said: “I was meant to have a class at 9 am on Tuesday, but we had to cancel the lecture because of the heightened tension in town.”
