President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace in Plateau State, assuring residents that the federal government will not relent until the persistent killings and unrest across vulnerable communities are halted.
Speaking through Senate President Godswill Akpabio at a political rally in Jos on Saturday, the president conveyed deep concern over the unending violence that has plagued the state.
“Let me assure the people of Plateau that your concerns are taken note of. Plateau is looking for peace; you don’t want your children to die young.
“So many people have died on the Plateau, and we are not happy; the President is not happy. We cannot deny the fact that many of you have been killed and made homeless, but we must stop this. We must bring peace to the Plateau,” Akpabio said.
Plateau State has recorded multiple deadly incidents this year, particularly in communities such as Bokkos and Bassa, where attacks have left dozens dead and entire settlements displaced.
Protest groups in Jos have described the violence as “genocide,” urging the federal government to intervene more decisively as homes continue to be burnt and properties destroyed.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang had previously apologised to residents of Bassa LGA over the inability of government and security forces to safeguard lives and property.
However, both the Federal Government and the African Union have cautioned against using the term “genocide,” explaining that the unrest stems from a complex mix of land disputes, criminal activity, and longstanding farmer–herder tensions.
The conversation around the crisis heightened after President Donald Trump claimed earlier in November that Christians were being exterminated in Nigeria, even suggesting potential U.S. military involvement—an assertion the Federal Government has firmly rejected.
Saturday’s rally also marked a significant political moment as key figures formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), redefining the political landscape of Plateau State.
Former Mutfwang Campaign Organisation Director-General Latep Dabang, who spoke on behalf of the defectors, said their move was driven by dissatisfaction with the state’s leadership.
“We assure you we will not put you to shame. We will ensure that the whole of Plateau is APC,” Dabang stated.
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, representing the Progressive Governors’ Forum, encouraged more political actors to align with the ruling party.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kanu, pledged full legislative backing for the new entrants.
“We have left Abuja to identify with you because you have taken the right decision. We will walk with you to achieve the dream of our party,” he said.
The event held at the Jos Polo Ground showcased a broad coalition of new APC members, including 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate Patrick Dakum; retired Major General John Sura; former senator Istifanus Gyang; and other influential personalities from both the PDP and Labour Party.
APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda hailed the mass defection as a sign of the party’s rising dominance in Plateau State.
“Today we have one party on the Plateau. It is APC or nothing. President Tinubu will win Plateau State, and APC will win the governorship,” he declared.
The rally concluded with the symbolic presentation of APC flags and brooms to the defectors, followed by loud cheers and chants from supporters who filled the venue.
What You Should Know
The Plateau crisis has intensified national debate over insecurity, language used to describe the violence, and the speed of federal response.
President Tinubu’s renewed assurances reflect a push to stabilise the region amid increasing political realignments.
The major defections to the APC signal a shifting political tide in Plateau State, potentially reshaping electoral outcomes as both national and state leaders rally for unity under the ruling party.
