Plateau Killings: We’re Doing Everything Possible To Arrest Perpetrators, Says Lalong

 

The Governor of Plateau State, Mr Simon Lalong, has assured residents of the state that the government remains committed to their security.

He says the government is also doing everything possible to ensure that perpetrators of the recent attack are brought to justice.

In a condolence message to the victims of Saturday’s attack, Governor Lalong described the incident as sad.

He added that it makes one question how much value is being placed on humanity while admitting that the incident has led to so much tension in the state.

The governor, however, called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives to ensure that there are no further attacks.

Read Also: Buhari Calls For Calm, Says Perpetrators Will Be Punished

“An attack on one, is an attack on all… Once again my heart and prayers are with families of victims of this attack as it affects every one of us,” he said. “The call for peace and dialogue at this time in our dear state can never be overemphasised.”

“Whilst I understand that tensions will be high at this grieving moment, I call on us to maintain calm and cooperate with security operatives to handle this unfortunate situation.

“Going to bed or waking up any day with the news that our people are attacked is something that leaves us with questions about our love and value for humanity…

“While we pray for the families affected by this sad act, I continue to assure you of my commitment as one of you, to remain unrelenting in working with the security agencies to investigate and fish out perpetrators of this inhumane act and ensure they are apprehended, and that justice for the victims is served,” Lalong added in a series of tweets.

Mass Killings

At least 86 persons were confirmed killed by suspected herdsmen during the attack on Gashish district of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state.

The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Mathias Tyopev, told Channels Television on Sunday that six people were also injured while at least 50 houses, 12 vehicles, and 15 motorcycles were razed.

 

 

He confirmed the casualty figure and destruction after a search and rescue team from the Plateau State Police Command visited the communities affected by Saturday’s attack.

The six villages attacked by the assailants are Xlands, Gindin Akwati, Ruku, Nhgar, Kura Falls and Kakuruk, all in Gashish.

Plateau State, which had previously enjoyed relative peace, has recently been hit by series of attacks mainly perpetrated by suspected herdsmen, resulting in the death of several persons.