Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau says the state government will review its security architecture to address the current wave of attacks in some parts of the state.
Lalong stated this in a radio and television broadcast on Thursday in Jos.
“As part of measures in the interim to arrest the vicious cycle of violent attacks, we are poised to immediately review our state security architecture.
“We are working closely with security agencies to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.
“Let me assure our citizens that some arrests have been made and the suspects will be arraigned before relevant authorities in no distant future,” he assured.
Lalong said that he was delivering the address with heavy heart as peace and stability of the state was being threatened by evil forces, determined to take it back to the gory moments of the past.
The governor stated that the series of systematic attacks, orchestrated by armed men have led to the destruction of innocent lives and property in the affected communities.
“As a responsible government that shares in the plight of its citizens, we condemn in strongest possible terms the resurgence of violent attacks in some of our communities in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas.
“Let me on behalf of the good and peace-loving people of Plateau commiserate with the families of those who have lost their dear ones in the series of attacks.
“To those who sustained varying degrees of injuries, we assure you that government will give you the necessary support to overcome your loss.
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“I pray for the repose of the souls lost as a result of this renewed violence and also pray God to assuage the anguish of their bereavement.’’
Lalong expressed concern that the emerging conflict had affected the collective efforts to further consolidate the gains of post conflict peace-building process.
The governor, however, assured the people that his administration was committed to ensuring that the security of lives and property remained unshakable.
He also assured that beyond the interim measures, government had developed a sustainable policy in response to the protracted conflict in the state, as contained in the Road Map to Peace document.
Lalong said that President Muhammadu Buhari recently launched the policy, adding that it contained sustainable solutions to the challenges of peace and security in the state.
“The Rescue Administration is determined to implement the details of this plan, considering the potential it holds for the future of our state in terms of peace and security.”
Lalong called on residents to remain calm and volunteer useful information to security agencies on any suspicious movement or persons in their neighborhood.
The governor also called on them to shun rumours and inflammatory speech capable of disturbing the peace.
He also urged them to work together, to lend support to those directly affected by the unfortunate incidents.
