Plateau Governor Bans Night Grazing, Motorcycle Use After Dark Over Security Concerns

In a bold Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has announced sweeping security measures following a series of deadly attacks across the state. The governor revealed a ban on night grazing, the use of motorcycles after dark, and the transportation of cattle by vehicles after 7 pm in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, April 16.

These directives come in the wake of a brutal assault on Kimakpa village in Miango district, Bassa Local Government Area, on April 14, which left at least 50 people dead. This attack followed a deadly spree less than two weeks earlier, where gunmen killed residents in five communities across Bokkos and Mangu LGAS. The violence destroyed homes, the burning of properties, and caused numerous injuries, further deepening the fear and uncertainty in the region.

In his address, Governor Mutfwang described the recent killings as “coordinated acts of terror,” aimed at displacing innocent residents and depriving them of their ancestral right to live in peace. He strongly condemned the violence, drawing parallels to other deadly incidents in the state, such as the Dogo Na Hawa massacre and the Christmas Eve bloodshed in Bokkos.

“Enough is enough,” Mutfwang declared. “Plateau shall not be overrun by fear, nor shall we accept this culture of bloodshed as the new normal.” He vowed that his administration would intensify efforts to protect the people and restore order across all local governments in the state.

A ban on night grazing of cattle. A restriction on the transportation of cattle by vehicles after 7 pm. A statewide curfew on motorcycles from 7 pm to 6 am until further notice.

In addition to these measures, Governor Mutfwang emphasised the importance of community involvement in security efforts. He called on traditional leaders and youth groups to reactivate local vigilante units and conduct night patrols in collaboration with security agencies. The governor also announced the creation of a fact-finding committee, composed of respected independent figures, to investigate the root causes of the violence and propose actionable solutions.

“We must protect our communities while upholding the rule of law,” he stated, reaffirming Plateau’s reputation for peace and unity despite the challenges it faces.

The governor further vowed that the perpetrators of these violent attacks would be brought to justice. “To the killers and their sponsors, your evil shall not go unpunished,” he warned. “You may run, but you will not hide. The plateau will rise. Plateau will prevail.”

As part of the state’s immediate response, medical agencies have been instructed to provide free treatment to victims of the attacks, while displaced residents are receiving food supplies and relief materials. Temporary shelters have also been set up for those affected by the violence. Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support, which includes additional resources to assist the state in its efforts to restore peace and stability.

In closing, Mutfwang urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and report credible information to security agencies, while avoiding any form of jungle justice. “The Plateau spirit is resilient,” he declared. “We are a people of peace, renowned for our hospitality and unity. Those who seek to tear us apart must not succeed.”

The Governor’s remarks signal a firm resolve to restore peace to Plateau State, and his administration is committed to ensuring that justice is served and the cycle of violence is brought to an end.