Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has visited Zikke community in Plateau State’s Bassa Local Government Area, urging residents not to profile criminals based on ethnicity. The visit followed a recent attack that left scores dead, homes burned, and hundreds displaced.
The IGP Kayode Egbetokun visited Zikke community, urging residents not to profile criminals based on ethnicity. He condemned the violence in the strongest terms, assuring that the police would soon apprehend the perpetrators.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms these acts of violence,” Egbetokun said. “We recognize the severity of the incident and its negative impact on the local farming communities in Plateau State.” He assured that the police would soon apprehend the perpetrators, stating, “I don’t want to say much on this, but I would say that this criminal element will soon be surprised because I know that their days are numbered.”
The Inspector-General called for unity among residents, cautioning against ethnic profiling of perpetrators. “I want to appeal to our people that we should not profile criminals based on their ethnicity,” he added. “Criminals must be dealt with as criminals. Criminals don’t have tribes. They are just criminals.” Egbetokun emphasized the need to work together to ensure that criminals are dealt with based on their actions, not their origin.
The attack in Zikke comes just two weeks after a similarly gruesome assault in Bokkos Local Government Area, where dozens were killed. The spate of killings has raised concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Plateau State. Governor Caleb Muftwang condemned the massacre, describing it as a deliberate killing of civilians, including children and the elderly.
“What happened in Plateau is plain murder,” Muftwang lamented. “Children aged between 3 and 9 were killed—no fewer than eight of them. What could a three-year-old possibly do to deserve this?” The governor expressed deep frustration, noting that Plateau had made strides in peacebuilding before the recent surge in violence.
Muftwang disclosed that he had spoken directly with President Bola Tinubu, who assured him of a coordinated response. “I have discussed with Mr. President and he has assured me that all the security heads have been directed to bring the situation under control,” the governor added.
The Zikke killings are the latest in a string of attacks in Plateau State, which has been plagued by communal clashes, herder-farmer conflicts, and banditry. Civil society organizations and community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger and swifter responses from federal authorities.
The IGP’s visit and assurance of justice have brought some hope to the residents of Zikke community. However, the situation remains volatile, with residents demanding justice and improved security measures.
The police command will continue to work with other security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace to the affected areas. The deployment of tactical assets to affected areas is expected to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
In light of the recent attacks, the Plateau State government has urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies. The government has also assured that it will do everything possible to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
The people of Plateau State are known for their resilience and peaceful nature. However, the recent attacks have tested their patience and resolve. It is essential for the government and security agencies to take decisive action to address the security challenges in the state.
The security situation in Plateau State requires a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of violence. The government and security agencies must work together to develop effective strategies for tackling these issues.
The Plateau State government has been working to promote peace and stability in the state. However, the recent attacks have posed a significant challenge to these efforts. The government must do more to address the security concerns of residents and ensure their safety.
The residents of Plateau State deserve to live in peace and safety. It is the responsibility of the government and security agencies to ensure that they are protected from harm. The recent attacks are a wake-up call for the government to take decisive action to address the security challenges in the state.
In conclusion, the Plateau killings are a grim reminder of the security challenges facing the state. The government and security agencies must work together to address these challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
The IGP’s assurance of justice and the deployment of tactical assets are steps in the right direction. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of violence and ensure lasting peace in the state.
The people of Plateau State will be watching closely to see how the government and security agencies respond to the recent attacks. It is essential for them to take decisive action to address the security challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
The situation in Plateau State requires sustained attention and action from the government and security agencies. Only through a comprehensive approach can the security challenges be addressed, and peace restored to
