Amid the shock and mourning that followed the killing of over 50 people in Zikke, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has issued a heartfelt apology, admitting the government’s failure to protect its citizens.
During a condolence visit on Tuesday to the palace of the paramount ruler of Miango, the governor—visibly emotional—spoke directly to affected residents, acknowledging the deep pain caused by the attack which occurred in the early hours of Monday, April 14.
“I won’t lie to you—I’ve been in tears since yesterday,” Mutfwang said. “I truly believed the steps we had taken would prevent further bloodshed. We made security investments, but human systems sometimes fail. On Sunday night into Monday morning, we failed you. Please, forgive me.”
This latest massacre comes on the heels of another deadly attack in Bokkos LGA just two weeks earlier, further intensifying fears about Plateau’s deteriorating security landscape.
While recognising the limitations of current security efforts, Mutfwang urged residents not to lose hope. He called for increased vigilance, community intelligence sharing, and collective resilience. “We must not give up,” he said, calling for unity in the face of ongoing violence.
The governor also met privately with several bereaved families, offering words of sympathy and support.
In response, the paramount ruler of Irigwe land, Ronku Aka, urged the government to go beyond condolences by addressing the infrastructural neglect of affected communities. He emphasized the need for tangible support and the provision of basic amenities to help restore lives and confidence.
As violence continues to haunt Plateau State, questions linger about the effectiveness of existing security measures, even as officials strive to reassure the public of ongoing interventions.
