Governor Caleb Mutfwang, of Plateau State, has condemned in strong terms, the attack on the Task Force responsible for enforcing Executive Order 003 by some criminal elements in Bukuru, Jos-South Local Government Area.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor, Gyang Bere, and made available to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State capital Monday.
The statement said, “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, expressed deep regret over the shameful actions of these miscreants, who not only targeted the Task Force but also endangered the lives of traders around the vicinity”, it stated.
The Governor, emphasized that the market was designated by the government to accommodate lawful business activities with an appeal to street vendors to relocate accordingly.
He lamented the reckless behavior of the attackers, who wielded dangerous weapons to inflict harm and loot shops, resulting in the destruction of vehicles owned by innocent traders.
“Tragically, however, one of the suspects fatally shot his accomplice during the chaos. We condemned the incident as entirely avoidable, questioning the motives of those who flouted Executive Order 003 and resorted to violence against law-abiding citizens.
“I call on security agencies to swiftly apprehend all perpetrators and ensure that they face justice without delay. I want to reiterate the State government’s unwavering resolve to confront troublemakers decisively”, Mutfwang warned
Highlighting broader the purpose of Executive Order 003, Governor Mutfwang clarified that the order’s intent was to safeguard Jos from deterioration into a slum and a haven for criminal activities.
He, therefore , reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with law-abiding citizens across all divides to foster peace and unity in the state.
Mutfwang appealed to religious and community leaders in the affected area, to guide their followers against unlawful conducts and implement measures to thwart criminal elements who may exploit the situation to cause disorder.
The Governor expressed appreciation to all security agencies for their dedication and urged them to intensify efforts to restore calm amidst the current challenges.
Meanwhile, he sympathised with members of the public whose vehicles and other properties were vandalized as a result of the incident.
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