Mutfwang tightens security after Barkin Ladi killings

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has imposed an immediate ban on night mining and night grazing activities across the state, announcing the measures during a visit to communities recently attacked in Barkin Ladi and Bassa Local Government Areas.

Addressing a security stakeholders’ meeting at Gwol Motel in Barkin Ladi — attended by religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth representatives and community stakeholders — Mutfwang directed that all mining operations must cease by 5 p.m. daily, reiterating an earlier restriction on nocturnal mining activities.

He also prohibited night grazing and banned underage children from herding livestock, urging parents and livestock owners to take personal responsibility for proper animal management.

The directives came as the governor toured Nding community in Barkin Ladi LGA, where several persons were reportedly killed in recent attacks that left many families displaced, and Ngbrazongo village in Kwall District of Irigwe Chiefdom in Bassa LGA, where residents had similarly suffered violence.

Mutfwang warned that security agencies had been directed to intensify operations to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attacks, adding that any personnel found complicit would be investigated and sanctioned.

“I have been on this matter since it started,” he said, noting that he had remained in contact with local government and security authorities before deciding to assess the situation personally.

The governor also assured farmers of adequate security ahead of the farming season and promised government support through subsidised fertiliser distribution, while appealing to the media to avoid narratives that could discourage investors from the state.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, who accompanied the governor, pledged Federal Government support through humanitarian interventions and recovery programmes for affected communities.