The Plateau State Government has assured motorists and other road users of safe passage along the Jos-Barkin Ladi highway following an attack in Kassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, which left three vigilantes dead.
The government also condemned the attack and appealed for calm, urging residents to avoid blocking the highway as security agencies intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The assurance followed protests by women and youths in Kassa, who reportedly blocked the major highway after gunmen reportedly attacked the community at about 1am on Friday, killing three vigilantes, including the community’s youth leader.
The road blockage reportedly caused traffic congestion and left some travellers stranded for hours, as protesters expressed anger over repeated attacks in the area and demanded improved security.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the state government described the attack as “deeply regrettable and unacceptable.”
The government commiserated with the families of the victims and assured residents that security agencies were taking steps to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further attacks.
It also appealed to affected families and communities to maintain peace, warning that blocking the highway could expose travellers to further danger.
“Government wishes to assure travellers that the road is clear and open to motorists and other road users. Citizens are therefore urged to go about their lawful activities without fear, while remaining vigilant and cooperating with security agencies,” the statement said.
Confirming the incident, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, described the killings as sad and disturbing.
Tengwong said the victims were killed while protecting their community, adding that their deaths had heightened fear among residents and dealt a setback to local security efforts.
He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the attackers and bring them to justice, while calling for urgent measures to protect communities in Barkin Ladi and other vulnerable areas of the state.
Security personnel were subsequently deployed to the area to maintain peace and prevent further escalation.
The Plateau State Government also reaffirmed the commitment of the Caleb Mutfwang administration to strengthening collaboration with security agencies and communities to improve security and promote sustainable peace.
It called on traditional, religious and community leaders, as well as other residents, to support efforts to maintain calm and prevent further escalation in Kassa, Barkin Ladi and other vulnerable communities.
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