Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has called on residents of Zilkke village in rhe Bassa Local Government Area to remain vigilant and defend themselves amid recurring attacks by suspected criminal elements.
The call followed a brutal assault on Sunday night in which gunmen stormed the community around 8pm, killing over 50 people, injuring scores — including women and children — and razing more than 40 houses.
The attack comes just two weeks after similar violence in Bokkos LGA that claimed over 80 lives.
The motive behind Sunday’s attack remains unclear, though some local sources believe it may be connected to a string of isolated killings throughout the week.
Speaking during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the village on Tuesday, Governor Mutfwang addressed survivors sheltered in a local primary school.
He emphasised the need for self-defence while cautioning against retaliatory actions.
“We are more determined than ever to ensure that no more innocent blood is shed on the Plateau. While we continue to invest in security, communities must also rise to defend themselves,” the governor stated.
