Sequel to the recent Christmas Eve attacks in some communities of Plateau State that claimed the lives of over a hundred people, the Plateau Youth Liberation Movement has called on opposition politicians to stop playing politics with issues of insecurity.
The group also called on the citizenry to support the efforts of the present administration in the state to ensure peaceful coexistence.
This was contained in a press statement made available to journalists in Jos, the state capital, signed by Joshua Jephta, the convener of the movement.
The statement reads: “We are indeed saddened by the barbaric, senseless and unprovoked Christmas Eve attacks on communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of our dear state.
“Information available to us indicates that over 84 communities were attacked, 195 persons, including women and children, killed, 1,300 houses torched, and properties worth millions equally destroyed.
“As we speak, over 100 persons who sustained various degrees of injuries are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals in the state.
“This killing is one too many. Plateau has had its fair share of bloodshed and hence we are calling on all stakeholders on the Plateau to unite towards defeating this common enemy.
“We want to specifically commend the proactive steps taken by Governor Caleb Mutfwang towards the safety of lives and property in the state.
“The governor has demonstrated uncommon and sterling leadership skills since the killings commenced.
“On good authority, the governor visited Lagos to meet with President Bola Tinubu, who insisted he must meet with the governor in person to get the true picture of the situation. So, those who think the governor went to Lagos for merry-making are not just mischief-makers but enemies of the state.
“Without mincing words, the governor’s visit to Mr President prompted him (President) to send a federal government delegation to the state, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima. We are particularly elated by the consoling words of the vice president, who assured the victims of the attacks that the Federal Government will ensure they get justice and also directed NEMA to provide immediate relief to them.”
The group appealed to the opposition party and naysayers to desist from politicising the current security situation in the state, saying, “Let us stop playing politics with human lives.”
The statement notes: “The state government has not only taken proactive steps towards providing succour to the displaced people but has also provided funds to cater for the medical bills of the over hundred people currently taking treatment at various hospitals within the state.
“Yesterday, the governor equally called on the federal government to provide special support for victims of the attacks to enable them to resettle back to their communities.
“He particularly called on the National Assembly to include the funds for resettlement of the victims of attacks in the state in the 2024 budget before passing it.”
“So, we call on all residents of the state to support the governor in his bid to ensure that all parts of the state are well secured.”
