Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has bemoaned the recurring circle of violence in Plateau State, saying the apparent lack of proactiveness on the part of security agents was a matter of grave concern.
LEADERSHIP reports that a sectarian crisis erupted in Mangu local government area of Plateau State earlier this week, leading to the killing of scores of people while residences and worship centres were destroyed.
The development prompted a declaration of a 24-hour curfew in the LGA by the state governor, Caleb Mutfwang. About 30 villagers were later killed in a village within the local government area in the wee hours of Wednesday despite the imposition of the curfew.
However, reacting to the orgy of violence in the North-Central State, the former presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said he was saddened by the violence and killings, describing it as a direct affront to the values of peace and unity.
Atiku, who took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, therefore, called on security agencies to exhibit a higher degree of proactiveness, particularly in light of the recurring incidents of banditry in Plateau State and across various parts of the country.
The former VP wrote: “I am deeply saddened by the violence and killings in the Mangu local government of Plateau State despite the imposition of a 24-hour curfew. This heinous act of violence, where innocent lives are being brutally snatched away, homes set ablaze, and communities thrown into chaos, is a direct affront to the values of peace and unity that we hold dear.
“It is imperative that our security agencies exhibit a higher degree of proactiveness, particularly in light of the recurring incidents of banditry in Plateau and across various parts of the country. The apparent lack of anticipation and preventive measures against such crises is a matter of grave concern. It is high time that our security forces rise to the occasion, ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens.
“Even as I call for peace, I stand in solidarity with the victims and their families during this difficult time. Let us all come together to ensure that such tragedies are not repeated. -AA.”
