Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has refuted claims of a surge in violent attacks across the state, following a deadly incident in the Dafo and Kwata communities of Bokkos Local Government Area on Tuesday night.
News About Nigeria reported that eight people were killed when gunmen stormed the villages and opened fire on residents.
Speaking during a biannual shooting range exercise organised by the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army in Bassa Local Government Area, Governor Mutfwang, through his Special Adviser on Security and Homeland Safety, Brigadier General Gagji Shippi (retd), described the attack as an isolated incident.
“I wouldn’t say there is an upsurge in insecurity in Plateau. The killings in Kwata and Dafo are a one-off occurrence after a long period of peace. This is the first attack in quite some time,” Mutfwang stated.
He further disclosed that an investigation is underway to uncover the motives behind the attack and ensure that similar incidents do not occur.
“We’re actively looking into the situation to determine the cause and put measures in place to prevent any escalation.”
Meanwhile, the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army also issued a statement explaining the significance of the biannual range classification exercise.
According to Army spokesperson Aliyu Danja, the exercise is designed to assess the readiness of the troops and the serviceability of weapons.
It also serves as an opportunity for security agencies, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to foster cooperation through hands-on military experiences.
The event saw participants, including military officers, government officials, and traditional leaders, firing various weapons such as AK-47s and FN rifles.
“The participation of security agencies and other guests is desirable as it strengthens collaboration between security organisations on the Plateau. The inclusion of traditional rulers and civil societies in the shooting exercise was designed to enable them to have a feel of our weapon and also foster cordial civil-military relations and cooperation with the general public and to also have a feel of the military experience,” the statement read.
