Plateau State Government has banned night grazing and restrict movement of cattle after 7pm.
The government also restricted motorcycle movement between 7pm. and 6am.
Governor Caleb Muftwang announced the measures in a state broadcast on Wednesday after murder of 51 people were killed in Bassa local government.
Governor Mutfwang condemned the killings, describing them as part of a “systematic campaign of terror” aimed at displacing communities and instilling fear across the state.
“This was not an isolated case of farmer-herder conflict,” the governor stated. “What we are experiencing is a calculated attempt to inflict terror and destabilize our land. The memories of Dogonahawa, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and the Christmas Eve massacre in Bokkos are still fresh. This circle of violence must not continue. Enough is enough.”
The latest violence in Kwall comes on the heels of an earlier attack in Bokkos that claimed over 50 lives, compounding grief and fear in the region.
He also announced the deployment of a tactical operation code-named Operation Rambo to vulnerable communities in the state.
To ease the burden on victims, hospitals across the affected areas have been directed to offer free medical care, while relief materials are being dispatched to displaced residents.
“Effective Wednesday, April 16, the following measures will be enforced across Plateau State.
“Night grazing of cattle is strictly prohibited.
“Transportation of cattle after 7:00 p.m. is banned.
“The use of motorcycles is restricted between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. statewide until further notice.
The governor also emphasized the importance of community collaboration, urging traditional rulers and youth associations to reactivate local vigilante groups for coordinated night patrols.
In a bid to foster lasting peace, Governor Mutfwang directed the newly inaugurated Inter-Religious Council to immediately engage stakeholders on the underlying issues fueling the violence. Additionally, a fact-finding committee composed of independent and respected individuals will be established to investigate the root causes and provide actionable recommendations.
“To the grieving families in Bassa and beyond, I understand your pain and frustration,” the governor said. “You may feel our security architecture has failed you, but I want to assure you that now, more than ever, we are committed to finding lasting solutions to protect you.”
Plateau State has long battled cycles of violence, often tied to ethnic and religious tensions. The latest developments underscore the urgency for sustainable security and peacebuilding strategies in the region.
