Sequel to the recent attacks in some communities of Bassa LGA of Plateau State, which claimed many lives, leaving farms and houses razed, the Senator representing Plateau North, Istifanus Gyang, has urged the military task force responsible for the maintenance of peace in the state, Operation Safe Haven, the Police and the DSS, to discharge their duties “dispassionately and provide protection to endangered communities of Plateau North and ensure that all threats to peace are decisively dealt with”.
It was gathered that the affected villages include; Zanwra, Nche-Tahu, Rikwe-Rishe A and B, Ri-Dogo, Nchu-Nzhwa all under Kpatenvie of Kpachudu/Jebu Community of Bassa LGA.
Gyang, through his Special Assistant, Media and Protocol, Musa Ibrahin Ashoms, said, “Most disturbing is the fact that repeated attacks have all been preceded by widely circulated intelligence information as to the date, time and location of the attacks.”
According to him, “With such prior information, the belated or non response of the Security agencies has been called to question.”
The lawmaker further stated that, “A pattern, ugly one at that, has become the norm than the exception in bloody and highly destructive attacks on host communities in Plateau North Senatorial District where killer herdsmen kill and destroy both lives and livelihood with reckless abandon.”
He said, “The most recent is the attack on Irigwe villages, Jebu on Saturday 31/07/21 where 7 persons were killed, many injured, over 200 houses burnt and large farm crops destroyed.”
Gyang, who is the Deputy Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, added that, “I’m urging the OPSH, Police, and DSS to discharge their duties dispassionately and provide protection to endangered communities of Plateau North and ensure that all threats to peace are decisively dealt with”.
It was recalled that a few weeks ago, the Plateau State Government disclosed that over 80 farms were destroyed by yet to be identified persons in Jos South, Riyom, Bassa and Barkin Ladi LGA within June and July 2021; warning that there could be serious food insecurity in the state and the nation if the acts continue unchecked.
Governor Lalong also gave a marching order to security operatives to unearth those behind the dastardly act.
