ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the latest wave of violence in Plateau State, where over 50 lives have been lost following brutal attacks in the Zike community of Bassa Local Government Area.
In a statement issued Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President denounced the bloodshed and called on Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to summon the political will required to end the crisis and foster lasting peace.
“The ongoing violence between communities in Plateau State, rooted in misunderstandings between different ethnic and religious groups, must cease,” Tinubu declared. “Enough is enough.”
The President, who extended his condolences to the government and people of Plateau, emphasized that the carnage must not be allowed to continue unchecked. He called for a united front involving community, political, and religious leaders—within and outside the state—to halt what he described as “tit-for-tat” killings.
“This devastation and these retaliatory attacks cannot define the future of Plateau. Beyond addressing the criminal elements, the political leadership in Plateau State must tackle the root causes of this crisis. These issues have persisted for more than two decades,” the President said.
Tinubu revealed he has held discussions with Governor Mutfwang in the past on strategies for peacebuilding, noting that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting the state in its efforts to rebuild trust, promote dialogue, and enforce accountability.
“I have instructed security agencies to investigate these killings thoroughly and ensure those behind the violence are identified and brought to justice,” he said.
Death Toll Rises in Bassa
The President’s remarks followed renewed violence on Monday in the Zike community, located in Kimakpa, Kwall District of Bassa LGA, where at least 51 people were killed and numerous homes razed.
According to local community leader Wakili Tongwe, the attackers stormed the village in the early hours, firing sporadically at residents attempting to flee.
Survivors describe scenes of terror and destruction, with families displaced and infrastructure destroyed—further compounding the region’s humanitarian crisis.
A Call for Lasting Peace
As Plateau continues to reel from these recurring episodes of violence, President Tinubu stressed the urgent need for a sustainable solution rooted in justice, reconciliation, and inclusive governance.
“Political leaders must move beyond surface-level responses. This is a moment that demands courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to unity. Only then can Plateau—and Nigeria—begin to heal.”
