Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has urged security agencies, particularly the military, to step up efforts in tracking down perpetrators of recent violent attacks in Riyom Local Government Area, insisting that the attackers are not spirits and must be apprehended.
The Governor made this statement on Wednesday during a visit to Tahos and other communities affected by the brutal assault that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 15, 2025. The attack led to the death of several villagers, injuries to many others, and widespread destruction of property, including homes and a church. Food items belonging to residents were also looted.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang expressed deep sorrow over the incident, strongly condemned the killings, and assured the grieving residents that the state government would not abandon them.
He lamented the failure to arrest any of the perpetrators despite the presence of a nearby military post and questioned the response of the military to the incident.
“Let me promise you, by the grace of God, Riyom will not fall,” the Governor declared. “We will deploy every resource at our disposal to end this genocide. This is not a case of farmer-herder conflict. This is terrorism; this is genocide, plain and simple. And I assure you, we will escalate this matter to the highest levels.”
While acknowledging the efforts of soldiers who have shown commitment in defending Plateau communities, the Governor insisted that those undermining security operations within the system must be identified and removed to ensure peace.
“We cannot continue like this. These attackers are not spirits, real people carried out these atrocities and vanished without a trace. Sector Commander, you were in command when suspects were arrested over a soldier’s death. Why are there no arrests today? Those young men currently held must be released immediately unless you have solid evidence to charge them to court,” Mutfwang added.
He assured residents that the government would arrange a dignified burial for the deceased and provide support for displaced persons. He also urged residents to remain calm and vigilant.
“To our elders and youth, please remain calm and vigilant. I thank our young people across these areas for their courage in defending their communities. We see you, we appreciate you, and we will continue to support you morally and otherwise to ensure that no one drives you from your ancestral lands.”
Governor Mutfwang further challenged security agencies to stop targeting scapegoats and focus on apprehending the true culprits.
“I want to hear of arrests, not excuses. The era of so-called ‘unknown gunmen’ is over. These killers live among us and must be brought to justice. Let them serve as an example to deter others who plan to destabilize our communities.
“To our security forces: you are not here on a peacekeeping mission. You are deployed to protect the lives and property of Nigerians. Anyone threatening these lives is an enemy of the state and must be treated accordingly.”
The Governor also extended his visit to Gwong, Fang, Keng, and Rachi communities in Bachit District of Riyom LGA, which have also experienced deadly attacks in recent times. He sympathized with the victims and encouraged them to remain resilient in defending their heritage.
During the visit, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Riyom LGA, Rev. Davou Musa, accused the military of failing in its constitutional duty to protect the people. He alleged that some security personnel were shielding the attackers and called on the Federal Government to withdraw the military from the area. He also appealed for urgent humanitarian aid for the affected communities.