In a devastating turn of events, Plateau State witnesses a horrifying Christmas Eve massacre, with the death toll soaring to 195 across Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu local government areas. The coordinated attacks left 148 dead in Bokkos, 19 in Mangu, and 27 in Barkin Ladi, along with the burning of 1,290 houses in Bokkos alone. The affected communities reel from the aftermath, seeking refuge in places of worship and private residences.
The Plateau State Government, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, swiftly responds, declaring a state of mourning for three days and ordering national flags to fly at half-mast. The Federal Government, under President Tinubu, activates immediate humanitarian support for victims, as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu, pledges collaboration with the state government.
The tragedy sparks condemnations from various quarters, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Sultan of Sokoto, and Vice-President Kashim Shettima. PDP criticizes the Tinubu-led APC administration for its perceived laxity in addressing security issues, urging urgent legislative action and ICC intervention.
In a bid for justice, the Inspector-General of Police orders investigations and additional deployment of resources to Plateau State. Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu calls for concerted efforts to prevent the recurrence of such heinous acts, emphasizing the need for peace.
Despite calls for unity, tensions escalate as conflicting narratives emerge. MACBAN accuses security personnel of collusion with farmers, while the Plateau Women Leader of the APC, Alice Dimlong, decries the senseless attacks and urges security agencies to bring perpetrators to justice.
Rights activist Femi Falana joins the chorus, calling on the Federal Government to end the killing of unarmed citizens in Plateau. The Northern Youth Assembly urges President Tinubu to prioritize national security, emphasizing the need for effective collaboration between the government and security agencies.
In the midst of grief and condemnation, Plateau State grapples with the aftermath of a tragedy that has once again brought the spotlight on the broader issue of insecurity in Nigeria. The call for justice, peace, and effective security measures resonates as the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives.
