Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has visited Plateau State to commiserate with families and victims of the recent spate of violence in Bokkos Local Government Area. He described the attacks as “senseless killings” and lamented the scale of destruction in communities already grappling with fear and displacement.
“Yesterday, I travelled from Abuja to Jos, Plateau State, to condole with and show solidarity with Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the people of Plateau State over the recent senseless killings in the Bokkos area of the state,” Obi shared via his official X handle on Monday.
During his visit, Obi met with displaced persons and survivors, calling the violence “utterly unacceptable.”
“Nigerians should not be killed or forced to flee their homes when we are not at war. Every life is precious, and no Nigerian, regardless of where they live, should have to live in fear or uncertainty,” he stated.
To support relief efforts, Obi announced a ₦7.5 million donation for displaced children and education, building on a borehole project earlier funded by his supporters.
“We continued the support yesterday with the sum of ₦7.5 million to help in providing facilities for the displaced children, continuous education, and ongoing needs of those affected,” he said.
He urged national leaders to show compassion and strength in times of crisis. “Now, more than ever, leadership and compassion are essential. I stand in solidarity with Plateau State and remain committed to supporting all efforts toward peace, justice, and healing.”
His visit followed another deadly attack in the Zike community of Bassa LGA, where over 40 people lost their lives. Local leader Wakili Tongwe confirmed the deaths, stating the gunmen stormed the area in the early hours and opened fire.
This incident adds to a growing list of violent attacks in the state, with experts citing ongoing tensions between herders and farmers as a core driver. Over 50 people were killed just two weeks earlier in Bokkos, and hundreds have died in similar attacks in recent months.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has called the violence “genocide sponsored by terrorists,” asking security agencies to uncover those responsible. The Federal Government has promised decisive action, while CAN (Christian Association of Nigeria) also condemned the attacks, calling them “barbaric” and a threat to national unity.
“This level of violence is a serious threat to our national cohesion,” said CAN President Daniel Okoh. “We call on the government to act swiftly to protect lives and restore peace to Plateau and other affected regions.”
