Plateau Killings: Governor Imposes Curfew, Troops Commander Relocates Base

Governor of Plateau State Caleb Mutfwang has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Mangu local government area (LGA) following recent attacks.

Mutfwang gave the directive yesterday in Jos, in a statement issued by Mr Gyang Bere, director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor.

NAN reports that fresh attacks were reportedly unleashed on some communities in Mangu LGA on Saturday night, resulting in loss of nine lives, properties, as well as many persons displaced.

“The state governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Mangu local government area, following recent attacks that led to loss of lives and properties.

“The governor, in consultation with the State Security Council, imposed the curfew on the entire local government area to restore law and order.

“Consequently, movements within the local government have been banned until further notice except for security personnel and persons on essential duties.

“Security agencies have therefore been directed to ensure total enforcement of the curfew,” the statement reads.

The governor further assured the people that the government was working round-the-clock to restore peace and security in the state.

Meanwhile, the commander of “Operation Safe Haven (OPSH)” Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar, yesterday, temporarily relocated headquarters of the operation to Mangu local government area (LGA) of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that OPSH is a special military task force, maintaining peace in Plateau and environs.

Abubakar, who doubles as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba, moved to the area barely 24 hours after he assumed command.

The decision followed a Saturday night attack on Sabon Gari community of Mangu LGA, where 12 persons were killed and six houses completely razed down.

According to the commander, the move would enable him to work in synergy with the local authority to mitigate the situation.

“I have relocated the headquarters of OPSH here so we can work with the local authority. We will stay here until we stabilise the situation.

“The governor is disturbed with the happenings, and that is why I am personally here to lead my troops.

“We won’t allow the situation to deteriorate further. We are not here to joke; and so, we will be decisive, fair and firm,” Abubakar said.