Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has directed security agencies to strictly enforce the ban on motorcycle operations within Jos metropolis as part of measures to prevent further attacks.
He gave the directive during a statewide broadcast on Tuesday, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to combating all forms of insecurity.
The announcement follows a deadly attack on Sunday in Angwan-Rukuba, Jos, where gunmen killed 28 people, including women, children, and students, and left several others injured, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.
Addressing residents, Mutfwang expressed deep sorrow over the incident and offered condolences to the bereaved families.
“It is with a heavy heart and profound sorrow that I address you today, not only as your governor, but as your son and brother who shares in your anguish following the tragic incident at Angwan-Rukuba.
This unfortunate event led to the loss of 28 innocent lives and left many others injured,” he said.
He assured citizens that the government was taking steps to strengthen security and prevent similar occurrences.
“As a government, we share deeply in the grief of the bereaved families and pray that Almighty God grants them, and the state, the strength, comfort, and grace to bear these painful losses,” Mutfwang added.
The governor disclosed that a State Security Council meeting had been convened to review and reinforce the state’s security framework, ensuring a more proactive and responsive approach to emerging threats.
“Consequently, I direct security agencies to strictly enforce the law banning commercial motorcycle operators (Okada) within the Jos greater master plan.
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The commissioner of police will issue detailed guidelines in this regard,” he said.
Mutfwang reaffirmed his resolve against all forms of intimidation and urged residents to remain law-abiding.
“Despite this breach of security, I want to assure you that Plateau State will not succumb to fear or intimidation. We shall emerge stronger, united, and resolute in our faith and commitment to peace.
We must deploy every available resource to defend our people, protect lives and property, and safeguard the territorial integrity of our state.
The Plateau shall remain strong and peaceful,” he stated.
He commended community leaders, youths, and residents of Angwan-Rukuba, as well as the wider Plateau population, for their restraint and refusal to retaliate.
“Your maturity and commitment to peace are deeply appreciated,” the governor said.
Mutfwang urged all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies, emphasizing that safeguarding the state is a collective responsibility.
“Let me assure you that every necessary measure is being taken to apprehend the perpetrators and safeguard lives and property across the state,” he added.