Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has urged residents to embrace collective responsibility in sustaining peace and unity following recent attacks in parts of the state.
Mutfwang made the appeal while receiving the founder of Eternity Network International (Koinonia Global), Apostle Joshua Selman, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Jos.
The visit comes amid renewed concerns over insecurity, with Selman announcing the donation of relief materials and cash valued at over N200 million to support victims.
Describing the visit as timely, the governor said it was “a strong show of solidarity with the government and people of Plateau in a time of grief.”
“I thank God for your life and impact. You are indeed a prophet with honour in your hometown, and your influence has positively touched many lives,” Mutfwang said.
He also acknowledged members of the delegation, including John Kennedy and Bestman Wadia, commending their continued connection to the state.
While lamenting the recent violence, the governor stressed that government interventions had cut across religious lines, noting that both Christian and Muslim families affected by the attacks had received support.
“We deliberately reached out to affected Muslim families as a demonstration of our love for humanity. Plateau belongs to all of us,” he said.
Mutfwang further appreciated the outpouring of support from across Nigeria and beyond, including from President Bola Tinubu, saying the solidarity has strengthened the resolve of the people.
He assured residents that proactive measures were being implemented to prevent further attacks, while urging them not to lose hope.
“If it had not been the Lord, what the devil intended would have been worse. While we mourn, we must also be grateful for what God has prevented,” he added.
The governor also called on Plateau indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, to contribute meaningfully to the development and preservation of the state.
“No matter what we become outside, if home is not strong, we remain vulnerable. The preservation of Plateau is a collective responsibility,” he said.
Earlier, Selman said the visit was aimed at identifying with the people of Plateau and commiserating with families affected by the violence.
“We came not just as ministers of the gospel, but as sons of the soil, to stand with the people in this difficult time and to encourage hope,” he said.
He described Plateau as “a land of great potential, rich culture and resilient people,” while lamenting the recurring violence in the state.
The cleric encouraged the government not to relent in its efforts to restore peace.
“Someday, we will look back and appreciate the courage and resilience of the leadership for not giving up,” he said.
As part of his intervention, Selman announced the donation of a truckload of about 3,000 bags of rice and other essential items valued at over N100 million, to be distributed in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
He also disclosed an additional N100 million financial support package for victims and affected families.
“These palliatives may not bring back the dead, but they can bring comfort to grieving families and demonstrate love and responsibility,” Selman said.
He emphasised the need for collective action in addressing the crisis.
“It would be unfair to do nothing. We must all contribute in our own way to bring relief and restore hope,” he added.
