Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang has condemned, in totality, the communal clash that resulted in the deaths of some persons, the destruction of property, and injuries among residents of villages bordering Langtang North and Mikang Local Government Areas of Plateau.
Mutfwang stated that such acts undermine the government’s intensive efforts to foster peace and unity among citizens of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, with the collective aim of advancing the state’s growth and prosperity.
Chronicle NG reports that a clash between rival youths in Plateau State’s Mikang Local Government Area reportedly resulted in several deaths and the burning of houses.
It was learned that many people were also hurt during the altercation said to have started on Saturday night between Taroh and Motola teenagers in the vicinity and lasted till the early hours of Sunday.
According to a statement signed by Bere Gyang, director of press and public affairs, to the Plateau state governor, Mutfwang expressed his dismay over the conflict and underscored the importance of dialogue as the most civilized and effective means of conflict resolution while questioning the rationale behind individuals resorting to violence, taking the law into their own hands, and targeting innocent communities with arson.
The governor urged security services to act decisively and hold the offenders and their sponsors accountable to the fullest extent of the law. He also encouraged immediate mobilization in the afflicted areas to avoid further escalation of the crisis.
Furthermore, Governor Mutfwang urged traditional, community, and religious leaders, as well as key players from the affected communities, to engage in negotiation and work towards an amicable resolution of the problems to maintain peaceful coexistence.
Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building long-term peace throughout the state, saying he envisions a united, serene, and prospering Plateau where all inhabitants, regardless of faith or ethnicity, support one another in a spirit of brotherhood.
Nine people were reported to have been killed as a result of the violence that occurred on Saturday, March 23, and Sunday, March 24, 2024 in the state.