In a firm step toward strengthening security and consolidating peace in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang chaired a State Security Council meeting to assess recent violent incidents in parts of the state, including Barkin-Ladi.
The high-level meeting, held on Friday, February 27, 2026, brought together heads of security agencies and key government officials. The Governor praised security operatives for their swift response, noting that their proactive efforts helped prevent further escalation. He, however, directed them to strengthen surveillance and intensify operations, particularly in rural communities where isolated clashes have been reported.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Governor Mutfwang condemned attempts by certain individuals to portray the state negatively following the recent incidents. He warned against inflammatory remarks capable of inciting unrest, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
He disclosed that the Council reviewed developments over the past two weeks, including a tragic mining incident in Wasethat claimed several lives and remains under investigation, as well as attacks in some communities described as unacceptable and condemnable. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to address the security challenges decisively.
On behalf of the government and people of the state, the Governor extended condolences to families who lost loved ones, assuring them of the administration’s solidarity and commitment to restoring calm. He emphasized that many of the deaths were avoidable and pledged sustained proactive measures to prevent a recurrence.
Governor Mutfwang revealed that two of the attacks targeted commuters, while another occurred in Dorowa, where residents were attacked. He stressed that most victims were innocent citizens engaged in lawful activities and assured that security agencies are tracking the perpetrators to ensure they are brought to justice.
Reiterating his administration’s zero tolerance for criminality, he declared that every life in Plateau is sacred and vowed that the government would not allow criminal elements to undermine the state’s hard-earned peace.
The Governor also issued a stern warning against unauthorized road blockages, stating that highways and access roads are public assets. He emphasized that only authorized security agencies have the mandate to restrict movement when necessary and cautioned that no grievance justifies taking the law into one’s hands. Community leaders, he added, would be held accountable for violent incidents within their areas, particularly attacks or unlawful killings along highways.
Dismissing claims that roads in Plateau are unsafe, Governor Mutfwang described such narratives as exaggerated and misleading. He maintained that the state remains peaceful and accused those amplifying isolated incidents—especially on social media—of attempting to tarnish its image and destabilize progress recorded in recent months.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Bassey Ewah, reassured residents that security agencies are working in synergy to apprehend those responsible for the disturbances. He affirmed that coordinated efforts are ongoing to ensure suspects are arrested and prosecuted, while dismissing as false reports alleging the discovery of a corpse in a remote location.
The meeting was attended by senior security and government officials, including the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola; Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo; Secretary to the State Government, Arc. Samuel Jatau; Chief of Staff, Hon. Jeremiah Satmark; and other top functionaries.