Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has condemned in strong terms the killing of 12 Kaduna State citizens in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The victims, who were traveling to Qua’an Pan Local Government for a wedding ceremony, were ambushed and killed in the troubled Mangun District.
Eleven others sustained varying degrees of injuries in the attack.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Governor Sani described the incident as a “barbaric act of savagery” and called for swift action from security agencies to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators.
“We received with shock and deep sorrow the news of the killing of 12 innocent Kaduna State citizens in Mangu. This is unacceptable. The criminals responsible for this heinous act must be hunted down and dealt with decisively. No stone must be left unturned in bringing these criminal elements to justice,” the governor stated.
Sani further urged the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to take decisive steps in addressing the insecurity in the state.
“I call on His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, to take full charge of the situation and lead security operations to ensure that the murderers are brought to book. This tragic incident must serve as a turning point in tackling the nefarious activities of non-state actors,” he said.
The Kaduna State Governor also pledged to personally monitor the progress of the investigations and security operations.
“This madness must stop. Enough is enough. We must send a clear and unequivocal message that impunity will no longer be tolerated anywhere in Nigeria,” he said.
The Governor also appealed to the people of Kaduna State to remain calm as efforts are underway to secure justice for the victims.
“Let me use this opportunity to call on the citizens of Kaduna State to remain calm. Rest assured, all hands are on deck to ensure that our murdered citizens get justice.
“We have made remarkable progress in peace-building and conflict resolution in Kaduna, and this sad event should not derail us from our path,” he said.
The governor also highlighted the Kaduna Peace Model as a testament to what can be achieved through political will and commitment. He expressed optimism that the Plateau State could adopt similar measures to restore peace.
“The situation in Plateau State is not irredeemable. With sincerity of purpose and concerted efforts, the bloodshed can be stopped,” he noted
Governor Sani extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them of the state government’s support.
“Our deepest condolences go to the families of our citizens who lost their precious lives in Mangu. I am personally in touch with the bereaved families and have assured them of our commitment to alleviating their pains,” he said.
The governor also directed that the injured victims receive the best medical care available.
“We shall ensure that the injured victims receive adequate medical attention. May the gentle souls of our departed citizens rest in perfect peace,” he added.
