As a cloud of grief hangs over Plateau State once again, Northern leaders have raised their voices louder than ever.
In the aftermath of the brutal attacks on five communities in Bokkos Local Government Area, the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has condemned the violence in strong terms, calling the killings “senseless” and a direct threat to the region’s unity and future.
Speaking from Gombe, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Chairman of the NSGF, didn’t mince words.
“The sanctity of human life must never be taken for granted,” he said. “These heinous attacks on innocent people—many of them women and children—are totally unacceptable and must be condemned by all.”
According to the statement released through Mr. Ismaila Uba-Misilli, Director-General of Press Affairs, the Forum expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries that have once again turned quiet communities into grounds of mourning.
Yahaya didn’t just offer condolences. He demanded action.
He urged security forces to track down the perpetrators and ensure they face justice, while also praising Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his swift intervention and the security agencies for responding promptly to the violence.
But the governor’s message went beyond sympathy. It was a call to arms—for peace, unity, and decisive leadership.
“This cycle of violence must end,” Yahaya said. “We will not fold our arms. We, as Northern governors, are committed to working together to break this pattern. We will strengthen security collaboration, promote dialogue, and push forward policies that promote peace and unity.”
He also called for stronger community ties, emphasizing tolerance and mutual understanding, especially between farmers and herders, two groups often at the heart of such conflicts.
As northern Nigeria faces rising tensions in its rural areas, Yahaya’s words echo a common fear—and a shared hope: that this tide of bloodshed can still be turned back.
“Now is the time,” he added, “for every stakeholder to rise—not just government, but traditional leaders, religious voices, and citizens alike. Let’s preach peace, tolerance, and forgiveness. The future of the North depends on it.”
