By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has described the recent wave of violence and killings in parts of the state as acts of coordinated crime, asserting that the attacks are the handiwork of conflict merchants rather than the result of farmer-herder clashes.
Speaking during the Fashion and Arts Exhibition organised by Tincity Fashion Week, themed “The Plateau Experience”, held on Friday night in Abuja, Mutfwang addressed the growing insecurity facing the state.
Recall that gunmen launched attacks on Manguno, Daffo, and Josho communities in Bokkos Local Government Area on April 2. The assault resulted in multiple deaths and the destruction of homes and property worth millions of naira.
Mutfwang, responding to the attacks, stated, “I want to thank all of you who are here to support and honour Plateau with your presence in this event. We do not take this show of solidarity lightly.”
He revealed that there were considerations to cancel the event due to the security situation but said the state chose to proceed to defy the agenda of those behind the violence. “We contemplated suspending this event due to the current security situation in the state, but we decided not to allow the situation ruin the good things we have to celebrate,” he said.
“And I must say that the aim of the enemy is to throw the state into gloom and mourning but we will rise above their intent and not give them what they want,” Mutfwang added.
“For those who think that the current situation is a farmer-herder issue, let me disabuse your mind from that perception; it is a product of organised crime by malicious elements who do not want peace to reign in the state,” he said.
The governor assured the people of Plateau that the state government and security agencies were taking necessary steps to prevent a recurrence. “I want to assure the good people of Plateau that God will give us victory over these miscreants and their end has come,” he declared.
Mutfwang also praised the organisers of the fashion and arts event for promoting Plateau’s culture, tourism, and business prospects.
Speaking earlier, Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau Tourism Board, described the state as a “goldmine” rich in both tourism potential and natural resources.
Miss Christabel Bentu, speaking on behalf of the organisers, lauded Governor Mutfwang for his commitment to the tourism sector and for his administration’s efforts toward sustainable development in Plateau.
Among the dignitaries present at the event were former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Minister of Women Affairs Pauline Tallen.