Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has condemned in very strong terms the attack by some criminal elements on the Task Force responsible for enforcing Executive Order 003.
The Task Force is mandated to regulate buildings and vehicular traffic within the Greater Jos master plan. The sad incident occurred on Monday at the Bukuru market in Jos South Local Government Area, where lawless individuals brazenly assaulted members of the joint Task Force.
Governor Mutfwang, in a statement issued in Jos signed by the director of press and public affairs, Mr. Gyang Bere, last night, expressed deep regret over the shameful actions of these miscreants, who not only targeted the Task Force but also endangered the lives of traders.
He emphasised that the market was designated by the government to accommodate lawful business activities with an appeal to street vendors to relocate accordingly.
The Governor lamented the reckless behaviour of the attackers, who wielded dangerous weapons to inflict harm and loot shops, destroying vehicles owned by innocent traders. Tragically, one of the suspects fatally shot his accomplice during the chaos.
Governor Mutfwang condemned the incident as entirely avoidable, questioning the motives of those who flouted Executive Order 003 and resorted to violence against law-abiding citizens.
He called on security agencies to swiftly apprehend all perpetrators and ensure they face justice immediately. He reiterated the State government’s unwavering resolve to confront troublemakers decisively.
Highlighting the broader purpose of Executive Order 003, Governor Mutfwang clarified that it intends to safeguard Jos from deterioration into a slum and a haven for criminal activities.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with law-abiding citizens across all divides to foster peace and unity in the state.
Governor Mutfwang appealed to religious and community leaders in the affected area to guide their followers against unlawful conduct and implement measures to thwart criminal elements who may exploit the situation to cause disorder.
He also appreciated all security agencies’ dedication and urged them to intensify efforts to restore calm amidst the current challenges.
He sympathised with members of the public whose vehicles and other properties were vandalised in the incident.
