Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to decisively confront terrorists and bandits, describing them as criminals and enemies of the state who must be neutralised without hesitation.
The governor made the call on Tuesday in Jos while receiving the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, at the Government House, against the backdrop of lingering security concerns in parts of the state.
Mutfwang urged the military to adopt a firmer posture, warning against any tendency to downplay acts of terrorism and banditry, which he said directly threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty and stability.
“I have said it time without number that insurgents and terrorists must be seen as enemies of the state who are threatening the sovereignty of our country; we must deal with them as such,” he said.
He noted that although Plateau State has witnessed relative peace under his administration, with only pockets of violence in some communities, the task of consolidating those gains now rests largely on the military. He stressed the need for sustained operations to eliminate the remnants of criminal groups operating across the state.
The governor cautioned the armed forces against complacency, insisting that recent security successes should be followed by thorough mop-up operations to prevent a resurgence of attacks and restore lasting peace to communities once known for calm and tourism.
Mutfwang also expressed confidence in the leadership of the army chief, offering prayers for a tenure that would deliver measurable improvements in national security.
“There have been challenges; there have been times when people have asked questions about the insecurity, but I must say that your presence has allowed many communities to sleep with their two eyes closed,” he added.
In his response, Lt.-Gen. Shuaibu commended the Plateau State Government for its developmental strides and reaffirmed the army’s commitment to tackling insecurity in the state.
“The security challenges on the Plateau are surmountable, and with all hands on deck, it will be achieved,” he said, assuring that the army would continue to intensify efforts to mitigate threats and ensure a safer Plateau.
