Governor Mutfwang Labels Plateau Attacks As Coordinated Violence By Conflict Merchants

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has denounced narratives portraying the recent spate of violence in the state as farmer-herder disputes. Speaking at the Tincity Fashion Week and Arts Exhibition in Abuja, the governor clarified that the attacks are coordinated acts of violence orchestrated by malicious actors he labeled as “conflict merchants.”

The comment comes in the wake of brutal assaults on April 2 in Manguno, Daffo, and Josho communities in Bokkos Local Government Area, where armed assailants killed multiple residents and razed homes and properties worth millions of naira.

“This is not a farmer-herder crisis,” Governor Mutfwang stressed. “This is an act of coordinated criminality by those intent on undermining the peace and stability of Plateau State.”

The governor assured citizens that his administration is actively working with national security agencies to implement concrete security strategies aimed at averting further violence and restoring peace.

Despite the tragedy, the event organizers chose to move forward with the fashion week to shine a light on the cultural richness and tourism value of Plateau State. Mutfwang praised the decision, saying, “While we considered cancelling the event due to recent events, we ultimately chose to showcase the enduring beauty and strength of Plateau.”

Also present at the exhibition, Mr. Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau Tourism Board, emphasized that the state is a goldmine for tourism and natural resources. On behalf of the event organizers, Miss Christabel Bentu acknowledged the governor’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and cultural preservation.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Minister of Women Affairs Pauline Tallen.

Why This Matters

This development underscores a growing concern about the mislabeling of organized attacks as communal conflicts in Nigeria. As noted by Amnesty International, failure to identify and prosecute perpetrators of mass killings can fuel further unrest and instability.

For more updates on violence prevention and regional news, check out our article on how to prevent attacks in rural communities in Nigeria.