Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has taken the blame and apologised to the people of Bassa Local Government Area for the failure of government and security agencies to protect lives and properties.
Mutfwang who tendrerd the apology when he visited the Zilke and Kimakpa villages in Kwall District of Miango in Bassa on Tuesday following Monday attacks by suspected Fulani militia where over 50 people including women and children were gruesomely massacred, confessed that he has been crying uncontrollably since the incident.
While addressing the people at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Irigwe land, Ronku Aka, who is the Brangwe of Irigwe, the Governor said it was heartbreaking to see such devastating and wanton killings and destruction of property.
“I will tell you the truth: I have been crying since yesterday (Monday) because I had trusted God that all the arrangements were put in place, that this will not happen again. We have made investments in security,” he said.
“But like all human arrangements, sometimes they fail. I want to admit that on Sunday night into Monday morning, we failed you. Please, forgive me.
“The entire nation stands with you in mourning, and so does the international community. Since yesterday, I have been overcome with sorrow.
“We took all necessary steps to avert this, yet we failed you. On behalf of the government and security agencies, we ask for your forgiveness.
“This is not the time for blame but for unity. Those behind these attacks are not invisible—they are known, and anyone protecting them is equally guilty,” he declared.
Mutfwang who strongly condemned the persistent violence targeting Irigwe communities, vowed to intensify efforts to restore peace.
He also highlighted the region’s deteriorating infrastructure, worsened by years of insecurity and neglect and urged the people not to relent in their efforts to secure their communities and ensure that they complement security agencies’ efforts by providing vital information for intelligence gathering and expose the antics of the criminals.
The Governor and his entourage rounded up by visiting some of the families who lost their loved ones in the attack to console them.
