Governor's Strong Response to Tragic Attack in Tahos
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has publicly commended the military for its efforts in safeguarding the people of the state. However, he firmly denied claims that those responsible for the killing of several villagers in Tahos, Riyom Local Government Area, were spirits. During a visit to the affected communities on Wednesday, he expressed deep concern over the inability to apprehend any of the attackers despite the presence of a nearby military post.
The violent attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 15, 2025, resulting in the loss of innocent lives, injuries to many, and the destruction of homes, including a church. According to a statement from the Director of Press, Gyang Bere, food items belonging to the villagers were also looted, adding to the tragedy.
Addressing the traumatized residents, Governor Mutfwang condemned the killings with strong language and assured the people that his administration would not abandon them during this time of grief. He pledged to conduct a comprehensive review of the state's security framework to ensure that those entrusted with protecting lives and property fulfill their duties without compromise.
"Let me promise you, by the grace of God, Riyom will not fall," the Governor declared. "We will deploy every resource at our disposal to end this genocide. This is not a case of farmer-herder conflict. This is terrorism; this is genocide, plain and simple. And I assure you, we will escalate this matter to the highest levels."
While acknowledging the efforts of soldiers who have defended Plateau communities, the Governor pointed out that some individuals within the security agencies must be identified and removed to restore peace. He criticized the lack of arrests following the recent attacks, questioning why no action had been taken despite previous arrests related to a soldier's death.
"The attackers are not spirits. Real people carried out these atrocities and vanished without a trace. Sector Commander, you were in command when suspects were arrested over a soldier's death. Why are there no arrests today? Those young men currently held must be released immediately unless you have solid evidence to charge them to court," the Governor demanded.
He urged the affected communities to find solace in God, assuring them that the government would organize dignified burials for the victims and take steps to support those who lost their homes. The Governor also called on the youth and elders to remain calm and vigilant, expressing gratitude for their courage in defending their communities.
"To our elders and youth, please remain calm and vigilant. I thank our young people across these areas for their courage in defending their communities. We see you, we appreciate you, and we will continue to support you morally and otherwise to ensure that no one drives you from your ancestral lands."
Governor Mutfwang called on the security agencies to stop targeting scapegoats and focus on capturing the real perpetrators. "I want to hear of arrests, not excuses. The era of so-called 'unknown gunmen' is over. These killers live among us and must be brought to justice. Let them serve as an example to deter others who plan to destabilize our communities."
He emphasized that the security forces are deployed to protect the lives and property of Nigerians. "Anyone threatening these lives is an enemy of the state and must be treated accordingly," he said.
The Governor also visited the Gwong, Fang, Keng, and Rachi communities in Bachit District of Riyom LGA, which have recently suffered similar deadly attacks. He expressed sympathy for the people and encouraged them to remain resilient in defending their ancestral heritage.
Rev. Davou Musa, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Riyom LGA, blamed the military for failing in its duty to protect the people. He accused some personnel of complicity by shielding the attackers and called on the Federal Government to withdraw the military from the area. He also appealed for urgent humanitarian relief to support the survivors.