The tranquility of Farinkasa Kerana and Sabon Gari communities in Plateau State was shattered when gunmen executed a ruthless attack, which claimed the lives of 12 individuals. The affected residents are now mourning the tragic loss of their community members.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has enacted a 24-hour curfew on the Mangu council area as a necessary measure following the series of attacks that have claimed lives and led to the destruction of property.
In a renewed plea, the Mwaghavul Development Association, comprised of Governor Mutfwang’s kinsmen, has urged the Federal Government to label Miyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) as a terrorist organization.
The killings in Jos, as recounted by a witness, Mathew Habila, occurred during the night of Saturday when the attackers entered the houses of the victims and carried out the deadly act.
He expressed his distress over the actions of the gunmen, who not only caused loss of life but also set fire to multiple houses, forcing the residents to abandon their homes.
Habila said: ‘We have our people killed again in another attack last night. This time, 12 people were killed with several others injured and many houses were burnt by Fulani militia at Farinkasa Kerana and Sabon Gari communities in Mangu districts of Mangu council.’
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Alabo Alfred, could not be reached for a response as calls went unanswered and his phone lines were switched off.
Speaking to newsmen in Jos, National President of MDA, Joseph Gwankat, said: ‘It is in the public domain that MACBAN has been hiring foreign mercenaries to attack communities, including ours.’
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‘Our villages have been deserted due to these attacks and have become grazing fields for the Fulani herders. So far, a total of 204 of our people have been killed in 53 attacks carried out by them.’
‘We, therefore, strongly suggest that the Federal Government should declare MACBAN a terrorist organisation because of the heinous crimes that its members are perpetrating in various parts of Nigeria.’
‘We urge the government to take full responsibility for educating children below the age of 10 who have lost both parents as a result of the attacks, while arrangements are made for the SS3 students whose WAEC exams were disrupted due to these attacks.’
In a bid to maintain peace and order, the governor, in consultation with the State Security Council, announced a curfew covering the entire council.
A communique from his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, reads: ‘Consequently, movements within the council have been banned until further notice except for security personnel and persons on essential duties.’
‘Security agencies have, therefore, been directed to ensure total enforcement of the curfew.’
‘Meanwhile, the governor has assured the people that the government is working round-the-clock to restore peace and security in the state.’
Similarly, the attack in Ukum, Benue state has resulted in an increased death toll of 30 persons. Despite deployments of security personnel to affected regions, these perpetrators still find their way to execute their heinous assignments. Thus, it is important to implement enhanced security measures to mitigate the ongoing attacks on residents.