Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has said the location of President Bola Tinubu’s meeting with residents following the Jos attack is less important than the purpose and outcome of the visit.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Mutfwang described the attack as unexpected, noting that both residents and security operatives were caught off guard after months of relative peace.
“The community was blindsided. The security personnel were blindsided. Because of the relative peace we have enjoyed… nobody envisaged this kind of thing,” he said.
He revealed that security agencies are already acting on credible leads, assuring that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible.
“We have some actionable intelligence at the moment that the security agencies are following up… we are determined to fish them out. When we do so, Nigerians would know… but for now, we are on their trail.”
According to the governor, the attackers disguised their operation in a way that made residents initially believe it was a routine raid.
“They came hooded and were shooting in the manner operatives of NDLEA usually do… By the time they realised, a lot of damage had been done.”
He further described the assault as calculated and professionally executed.
“The initial assessment indicates that the attackers knew their onions in terms of marksmanship… This was premeditated, well-orchestrated, and deliberately structured to create fear.”
While acknowledging suspicions about those behind the attack, Mutfwang cautioned against speculation.
“We have our suspicions, but we would rather keep them until the security agencies have done their work. It would be irresponsible to make conjectures at this stage.”
Appealing for calm, especially during the Easter period, he urged residents not to resort to violence.
“In the spirit of Easter, I appeal to our people to sheathe their swords and calm their hearts… We must remain a lawful society.”
He stressed that the aim of the attackers was to destabilise Plateau State and reverse recent peace efforts.
“The aim is to set the state ablaze and make us lose the gains we have made… We cannot afford to lose those gains.”
On justice, the governor vowed that those responsible will be prosecuted.
“Not under my watch will this be swept under the carpet… When arrests are made, none will slip through our fingers. We will prosecute.”
Addressing criticism over the President’s visit, he maintained: “The venue is not as important as the substance. The President came, met with the people, and demonstrated concern. That is what matters.”