posted 16th April 2025
Plateau State Violence: Governor Urges Communities to Defend Themselves
Zilkke, Plateau State – 16 April 2025
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has urged residents of Zilkke village in Bassa Local Government Area to remain vigilant and defend themselves following a deadly attack by suspected criminals on Sunday night. The assault, which left over 50 people dead, scores injured, and more than 40 houses destroyed, has heightened tensions in the region.
The attack, which occurred around 8pm, comes just two weeks after a similar wave of violence in Bokkos LGA claimed over 80 lives. Local sources suggest the incident may be linked to a series of isolated killings in the area over the past week, though the motive remains unclear.
During an on-the-spot assessment visit to Zilkke on Tuesday, Governor Mutfwang addressed survivors, many of whom are now sheltered in a local primary school. He stressed the importance of self-defence while warning against retaliatory violence. “We are more determined than ever to ensure that no more innocent blood is shed on the Plateau. While we continue to invest in security, communities must also rise to defend themselves,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rebuilding affected areas and supporting displaced families. With the farming season approaching, he called on youths to stay alert, adding, “This is not the time to lament or assign blame. It’s time to stand united and protect one another.” Mutfwang also hinted at complicity, stating, “The people who attacked us are not ghosts—they are known, and those shielding them are complicit.”
The attack has reignited ethnic tensions, with some residents alleging that Fulani militants were responsible. Ardo Lawal Haruna, a Fulani leader in the area, denied the claims, condemning the violence and urging security agencies to identify the perpetrators. “The allegation against us is false,” Haruna said.
Samuel Jugo, spokesperson for the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), confirmed that the assault began with sporadic gunfire by unidentified assailants. The traditional ruler of the Irigwe people, Bra Ngwe Irigwe, Rt. Rev. Ronku Aka, thanked the governor for his visit and echoed calls for residents to avoid reprisals. He expressed concerns that the attacks are part of a broader effort to displace his people.
Prior to his visit, Governor Mutfwang posted on X, announcing that investigations were underway and that a high-level security meeting had been convened to address the crisis and prevent further violence.
The recurring attacks in Plateau State have raised urgent questions about security and the need for lasting solutions to the region’s ethnic and communal conflicts. As investigations continue, residents of Zilkke and surrounding areas remain on edge, grappling with grief and uncertainty.
