The National Orientation Agency (NOA), Plateau State, has condemned the recent wave of attacks in several communities in Bokkos local government area of the state where over 50 people were killed and thousands of others displaced.
The State Director of the NOA, Kaneng Tabitha Pam-Hworo, who expressed her sadness over the spate of attacks in the local communities, said it was quite disturbing that such attacks would be perpetrated by bandits on harmless natives who have been living together for years.
A press release issued by Pam-Hworo on behalf of the NOA, the agency also called for decisive actions to prevent future occurrences of such attacks.
“The n received with deep sadness and outrage the disturbing report of the violent attacks on on innocent communities in Bokkos Local Government Area on 2nd April, 2025, leading to loss of lives, property, injuries, and displacement of citizens,” the statement said.
“We strongly condemn these barbaric acts by suspected “armed herdsmen”, which have once again disrupted the peace and livelihood of the people, particularly as they prepare for the farming season. The attacks on Ruwi, Hurti, Tadai, Manguna, Daffo, Mongor, Josho, Pyakmalu, Jol, Ndun, Ngyong, Murfe, Makundary, Tamiso, Chiang, Tahore, Gawarba, Dares, Meyenga and Darwat communities with over 50 people killed represent a grave violation of human rights and a threat to our collective security.
Our Position:
1. Justice Must Prevail:
“We commend the security agencies for their swift response and arrests made so far. However, we demand full prosecution of the perpetrators to serve as a deterrent to others. justice must be seen to be done.
2. Enhanced Security Measures:
While we acknowledge the efforts of security forces, we urge the Plateau State Government and Federal Authorities to immediately deploy more troops to Bokkos LGA and establish a permanent security presence in vulnerable communities.
3. Community Vigilance & Self-Defense:
In line with constitutional provisions, we encourage law-abiding citizens to organize lawful self-defense mechanisms to protect their lives and property, while cooperating with security agencies
4. Humanitarian Support:
We call on the Plateau State
Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and NEMA to provide urgent relief materials to displaced families and ensure medical care for the injured.
5. Peacebuilding & Dialogue:
NOA will intensify community sensitization programs to promote inter-ethnic dialogue and discourage reprisal attacks. We urge traditional, religious, and youth leaders to foster unity and resist divisive narratives.
A Call to Action:
The recurring violence in Bokkos and other parts of Plateau State is unacceptable. We call on all stakeholders—government, security agencies, community leaders, and citizens to work together to end this cycle of bloodshed.
The National Orientation Agency remains committed to promoting peace, tolerance, and national unity, and we will continue to engage all parties to ensure lasting solutions.
Plateau State deserves peace!”
