Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) yesterday called for support for the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang in his efforts to address the security challenges.
No fewer than 100 people were killed in multiple attacks on communities within one week.
NGF’s Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, made the call during a visit to Plateau State in company with some governors.
In a statement by the NGF secretariat, Abdulrazaq sympathised with the people over the killings.
He said: “On behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the people of our states, I bring you sincere words of condolences on the unfortunate events in which many of our compatriots have lost their lives.
“We call on leaders and influencers across all communities and sectors in Plateau to join His Excellency in the task of uniting the people and restoring sustainable peace.
“Leaders, including youth leaders, should come together to speak strongly against violence of any kind.
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“We urge that we resolve our differences through dialogue, fair negotiations, mutual respect, and perspective-taking.
“Sustainable development can be a mirage in an atmosphere of tension and violence.
“Plateau is full of potential, especially in agriculture and tourism. But these potentials could be affected negatively if we allow violence or threats to define how people see our communities.
“We commend His Excellency the Governor for his leadership at this critical moment.
“Our visit is to express our solidarity with His Excellency and the government and the good people of Plateau State.
“We pray to God Almighty to repose the souls of the victims and restore peace to our communities.”
The governors on the team are Babagana Zulum (Borno), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), and Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Dr Emmanuel Akabe.
