Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has condemned the attack on the task force enforcing Executive Order 003 by some criminal elements.
The task force is mandated to regulate buildings and vehicular traffic within the Greater Jos master plan. The sad incident occurred yesterday at the Bukuru Market in Jos South local government area, where lawless individuals assaulted members of the joint task force.
Governor Mutfwang in a statement issued in Jos d by the director of press and public affairs Mr. Gyang Bere last night, expressed regret over the “shameful actions of these miscreants, who not only targeted the task force but also endangered the lives of the traders.”
He said the market was designed by the government to accommodate lawful business activities with an appeal to street vendors to relocate accordingly.
The governor lamented the reckless behaviour of the attackers, who wielded dangerous weapons to inflict harm and loot shops, resulting in the destruction of vehicles owned by innocent traders.
Tragically, one of the suspects fatally shot his accomplice during the chaos.
Mutfwang condemned the incident as entirely avoidable, questioning the motives of those who flouted Executive Order 003 and resorted to violence against law-abiding residents.
He called on security agencies to swiftly apprehend all the perpetrators and ensure that they face justice without. He reiterated the state government’s unwavering resolve to confront troublemakers decisively.
Highlighting the broader purpose of Executive Order 003, Mutfwang clarified that its intent is to safeguard Jos from deteriorating into a slum and a haven for criminal activities.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with law-abiding citizens across all divides to foster peace and unity in the state.
Mutfwang appealed to religious and community leaders in the affected area to guide their followers against unlawful conducts and implement measures to thwart criminal elements who may exploit the situation to cause disorder.
He expressed appreciation to the security agencies for their dedication and urged them to intensify efforts to restore calm amidst the current challenges.
He sympathised with members of the public whose vehicles and other property were vandalised.
