Residents of Plateau State have called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang to take stronger action against the wave of killings and attacks across parts of the state.
The residents said they were tired of repeated condolence messages whenever lives were lost.
They want the government to focus on preventing further attacks and protecting communities.
21 People Reportedly Killed
The demand followed a bloody weekend in Plateau State.
About 21 people were reportedly killed between Friday, September 11, and Sunday, September 13.
The attacks were reported in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Jos South Local Government Areas.
The victims were reportedly killed in attacks blamed on suspected armed groups and local militia gangs.
Mutfwang Condemns Attacks
Following the violence, Governor Mutfwang condemned the killings.
He said his administration remained committed to restoring peace and improving security across the state.
The governor said the government was working with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders.
He also cited dialogue, intelligence sharing and community engagement as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s security system.
Mutfwang said protecting lives and property remained a major priority.
He also assured residents that security agencies were pursuing those responsible for the attacks.
Residents Reject More Assurances
However, some residents who called into a radio programme on Monday expressed frustration with the governor’s response.
They accused the government of relying too heavily on statements after attacks instead of taking stronger preventive measures.
Social activist Nanle Bamshak was among those who criticised the governor.
He said many residents supported Mutfwang in the hope that his administration would tackle insecurity.
Bamshak, however, alleged that the governor was now more focused on his political future and possible re-election in 2027.
‘We Need Proactive Action’
Another caller, Peter Alamba, said residents were becoming frustrated with what he described as repeated condolence messages.
He called for concrete measures to prevent further killings.
“We are tired of Gov. Caleb Mutfwang’s regular and rhetorical press statements and condolence messages whenever our people are killed,” Alamba said.
He argued that residents needed stronger security measures rather than repeated assurances.
More Criticism From Residents
Another caller, Polycarp Bitrus, also expressed disappointment with the governor’s handling of insecurity.
He alleged that communities were being attacked and displaced while the government continued to issue similar statements after each incident.
John Fadung also criticised the governor.
He said some of those now questioning Mutfwang had supported him during the 2023 election.
Fadung accused the governor of losing focus on the interests of residents.
Security Remains a Major Concern
The latest criticism highlights the growing pressure on the Plateau State government to improve security.
For residents, the immediate concern is preventing further loss of life and protecting communities.
While the government says security agencies are pursuing the perpetrators, residents are demanding visible results.
The renewed attacks have therefore placed additional pressure on the state government to turn its security promises into concrete action.
