President Bola Tinubu has condemned the recent violence in Plateau State, where gunmen killed at least 51 people and injured several others in Zikke and Kimakpa villages in Bassa Local Government Area on Monday. The attack follows a deadly clash two weeks ago that claimed 52 lives and displaced nearly 2,000, according to the National Emergency Agency.
In a statement titled “President Tinubu Condemns Latest Attack in Plateau, Charges Governor Mutfwang to Resolve Underlying Communal Issues,” signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu called for an end to the “tit-for-tat attacks.” He expressed deep sorrow, extending condolences to Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the people of Plateau.
Tinubu highlighted the need to address the root causes of the violence, often tied to ethnic and religious misunderstandings, stating, “We can no longer ignore the underlying issues.” He urged Mutfwang to tackle these decades-old communal conflicts with political resolve to foster lasting peace. “I have discussed these problems with the governor over time and offered suggestions,” he added.
The President called for unity across communities and directed security agencies to investigate and identify those behind the attacks. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for Plateau in promoting dialogue, social cohesion, and accountability to resolve the conflict permanently.
The cause of Monday’s attack remains unclear, as Plateau continues to grapple with a history of violence between farmers and herders.