Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has announced plans to introduce emergency toll-free hotlines to enable residents report suspicious activities and enhance rapid response to security threats across the state.
The Governor made this known during an Easter Sunday service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Old Bukuru Park, in Jos North Local Government Area. He reassured citizens of his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through intensified security measures.
Governor Mutfwang explained that the initiative will establish a direct communication channel between the public and security agencies, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital in addressing insecurity.
“The simple message is: see something, say something. We will be inaugurating hotlines in the coming days for citizens to share information, and we will respond decisively to all forms of criminality,” he stated.
Referring to the recent Palm Sunday attack in Angwan Rukuba, the Governor acknowledged the fear and pain experienced by residents but reaffirmed government’s resolve to maintain peace and stability.
“We will not be intimidated or cowed by fear. What the enemy intended for evil, God is turning around for His glory. Plateau will continue to rise higher and higher.”
He noted that the past week has been particularly challenging but assured that the government is intensifying efforts to improve security across both urban and rural communities.
“We are not resting on our oars. While we have taken significant steps to prevent further attacks, we will continue to strengthen our efforts to ensure that both our cities and villages are secure.”
The Governor also raised concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among youths, calling on religious and community leaders to collaborate with government in tackling the problem.
“One of the major challenges confronting us is the destruction of our young people by drugs and narcotics. I urge the Church to partner with government to eliminate these agents of destruction.”
He further advised residents to avoid unnecessary risks, particularly night mining activities, which have exposed many to security threats. “Let us take responsibility for our safety. Avoid dangerous situations and reduce exposure to risks.”
Highlighting the significance of Easter, Governor Mutfwang described the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a symbol of hope, renewal, and restoration, expressing optimism for a brighter future for Plateau State. “Easter represents hope restored in the midst of despair. What once seemed lost has come back to life, and that will be our collective experience.”
In his sermon titled “Christ’s Resurrection: Power for Today, Hope for Tomorrow,” the Bishop of the Jos Anglican Diocese, Ephraim Gongden, urged Christians to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and live in the power of His resurrection. “The resurrection is central to our faith. It grants us victory over sin, renewed hope, and the assurance of eternal life. We must live daily in its power.”
The Easter service featured worship, prayers, and renewed calls for unity, peace, and sustained development in Plateau State and Nigeria.