In the aftermath of the Christmas eve attacks that claimed the lives of over 150 individuals in Plateau State, the state government, on Monday, declared seven days of mourning, effective from January 1. Governor Caleb Mutfwang announced this solemn decision during his New Year statewide broadcast to the people.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragic incidents, Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the profound impact of the recent attacks, which added to the already significant loss of lives earlier in the year. He revealed that between April and June of 2023, over 400 lives were lost, with an additional 160 casualties in the recent Christmas genocide.
In his broadcast, Governor Mutfwang remarked, “It is true that we ended the year 2023 on a sad note because of the many precious lives we lost… It is quite grievous to my heart that Plateau State has today become the cynosure of the whole nation and indeed the world for the wrong reasons.”
The governor described the attacks as premeditated and coordinated, labeling them as acts of criminality, insurgency, and terrorism. He emphasized the need to address these incidents with a firm approach to curb further destruction of lives and property.
In a move to extend compassion, Governor Mutfwang announced a state pardon for one Danladi Musa, who had previously been sentenced to life imprisonment, along with three others who had their sentences converted to lesser terms. The gesture reflects the state’s commitment to fairness and justice.
“These unprovoked and simultaneous attacks in different villages were clearly premeditated and coordinated. These series of attacks on our people are a clear case of criminality, insurgency, and terrorism and must be seen and handled in that manner if we must succeed in halting this wanton destruction of lives and property,” Governor Mutfwang declared.
The declaration of seven days of mourning serves as a collective expression of grief and solidarity with the affected communities, while the governor’s address sheds light on the gravity of the situation and the state’s determination to address the root causes of the violence.
