THE state government has announced eight days of mourning following the recent attacks in various Plateau State towns, in which over 100 people were killed and property worth millions of dollars was destroyed.
The period of mourning will last from January 1 to January 8, 2023.
The attacks in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu local government areas began on Christmas Eve and continued throughout the day.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang declared the days of sorrow yesterday in a New Year’s statewide broadcast, stating that the flag will also be flown at half mast during the mourning period.
In this regard, he urged Muslim clerics to set aside Friday, January 5, 2024, and Sunday, January 7, 2024 as special prayer days for the return of sustainable peace to the state.
“Let me use this medium again to commiserate with my dear Plateau people on these monumental killings, especially the affected communities and the families of the deceased. My heart goes out to you and be assured that my family, the entire government and I deeply share in your grief.
“We will not rest on our oars but will tirelessly collaborate with the federal government to bring an end to these tragedies and bring succour to affected persons and communities.
“As a mark of honour for the memory of the deceased, I wish to declare a week of mourning from January 1st, to January 8th, 2024. During this period of mourning, flags will fly at half-mast.
“I urge all citizens to use these days for intense prayers to seek the intervention of the Almighty God in defending our territories and against wicked men that have risen against us,” he said.
He expressed satisfaction that, despite the attacks, the people’s spirits have not been shaken, and that their determination to defend and flourish in the land has not wavered.
Mutfwang also expressed optimism that 2024 will reveal the people’s inner power and resilience in the face of adversity.
