DIPLOMAN TIMES

The Plateau State Government has condemned a reported attack around the State Low-Cost Housing area of Bukuru involving traders identified as Fulani herders returning from the Bukuru Kara Livestock Market and has directed security agencies to investigate the incident.

The Plateau State Government described the reported attack in Jos South Local Government Area as sad and unacceptable and extended condolences to victims and affected families. The statement, issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, said the government was concerned about the incident and its implications for the safety of people travelling through the Jos-Bukuru area.

The government directed security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the identities and motives of those responsible. The directive places the immediate responsibility for establishing the circumstances of the incident with the relevant security authorities while the state government continues its engagement with stakeholders.

The government appealed to communities, traders, pastoralists and other stakeholders to remain calm and resist attempts to escalate tensions or deepen existing divisions. It specifically warned against reprisal attacks and against individuals taking the law into their own hands while the investigation is ongoing.

The statement further said the state government was engaging relevant stakeholders to strengthen security along vulnerable routes and prevent further attacks. Citizens were encouraged to provide useful information to security authorities that could assist the investigation. The government said the objective was to protect lives and property within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis and maintain an environment in which lawful economic activity can continue.

At the time of the October 5 statement, the Plateau State Government had not announced the identities of suspects or a completed account of the circumstances surrounding the attack. Its stated position was that security agencies should establish what happened while communities and other stakeholders maintained calm. The government reiterated that citizens should continue their lawful activities and avoid any action that could trigger further violence.