Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Riyom LGA of Plateau State, Rev. Davou Musa, has accused the military of failing in its duty to protect the people of Binda in Tahos Village during the attack carried out by militias in the area.
LEADERSHIP Friday reports that the attack, in the early hours of Tuesday, claimed over 27 lives and left several others injured. Homes and churches were burnt while food items belonging to the villagers were also looted by the attackers.
Rev. Musa also accused some personnel of complicity by shielding the attackers and called on the federal government to withdraw the military from the area.
He appealed for urgent humanitarian relief forthe survivors.
The clergyman stated this during Governor Caleb Mutfwang‘s visit to Binda in Tahos Village, the scene of the attacks.
According to disturbing eyewitness accounts from survivors, the armed assailants invaded the community in large numbers, and military operatives stationed 200 meters away couldn‘t intervene successfully to prevent the carnage, with no arrests made in the aftermath.
Meanwhile, Plateau State governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, while addressing the traumatised residents, condemned the killings in strong terms and assured the people that his administration would not abandon them in their time of grief.
He pledged a comprehensive review of the state’s security architecture to ensure that those charged with protecting lives and property discharge their responsibilities without compromise.
“Let me promise you, by the grace of God, Riyom will not fall,” the Governor declared. “We will deploy every resource at our disposal to end this genocide. This is not a case of farmer-herder conflict. This is terrorism; this is genocide, plain and simple. And I assure you, we will escalate this matter to the highest levels.”
Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the efforts of gallant soldiers who have stood firm in defence of Plateau communities but noted that some bad elements within the security agencies must be identified and removed for peace to reign.
“We cannot continue like this. These attackers are not spirits; real people carried out these atrocities and vanished without a trace. Sector Commander, you were in command when suspects were arrested over a soldier’s death. Why are there no arrests today? Those young men currently held must be released immediately unless you have solid evidence to charge them to court,” the governor demanded.
He urged the affected communities to find solace in God, assuring that the government will organise a dignified burial for those killed and take steps to support those who lost their homes.
“To our elders and youth, please remain calm and vigilant. I thank our young people across these areas for their courage in defending their communities. We see you, appreciate you, and will continue supporting you morally and otherwise to ensure that no one drives you from your ancestral lands.”
Governor Mutfwang called security agencies to stop targeting scapegoats and go after the real perpetrators.
“I want to hear of arrests, not excuses. The era of so-called ‚unknown gunmen‘ is over. These killers live among us and must be brought to justice. Let them serve as an example to deter others who plan to destabilise our communities.
“To our security forces: you are not here on a peacekeeping mission. You are deployed to protect the lives and property of Nigerians. Anyone threatening these lives is an enemy of the state and must be treated accordingly,” he emphasised.
The Governor also extended his visit to Gwong, Fang, Keng, and Rachi communities in Bachit District of Riyom LGA, all of which have recently suffered similar deadly attacks. He sympathised with the people, encouraging them to remain resilient and steadfast in defending their ancestral heritage.
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