Arewa Riddim, the powerful new Afrobeat single by Mr Kleb x Realtricks x Freeman Fanatic, responds to the recent violent attacks in Plateau and other States. The track combines rich traditional Arewa sounds with bold Afrobeat energy to deliver a strong message of resilience, unity, and self-defense.
Serving as a voice for the voiceless, the song urges Plateau citizens to stay alert, protect themselves, and stand together in the face of insecurity. More than music, Arewa Riddim is a call to action for peace and justice. Now streaming on all major platforms.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has commended the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his swift and decisive response to the recent attacks in rural communities of Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas.
Governor Abdulrazaq, who led a high-powered delegation of the Forum on a solidarity visit to Plateau State, sympathized with the government and people of the state over the tragic incidents and appealed for concerted efforts to promote peace and end insecurity across the country.
The Forum Chairman conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and lauded the security agencies for their timely intervention in curbing further violence.
“On behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the people of our states, I bring sincere condolences on the unfortunate incidents that claimed the lives of many of our compatriots,” he said.
“We urge all leaders and influencers in Plateau—traditional, religious, political, and youth leaders to rally around His Excellency in uniting the people and restoring lasting peace. We must all speak with one voice against violence in any form. Let us embrace dialogue, fair negotiation, mutual respect, and empathy as tools for conflict resolution.”
Governor Abdulrazaq emphasized that sustainable development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of unrest and violence.
“Plateau holds tremendous potential in agriculture and tourism. However, continued violence threatens to undermine these opportunities. We commend Governor Mutfwang for his leadership at this critical juncture. Our visit is a demonstration of solidarity with the government and people of Plateau State. We pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and for the restoration of peace across the state.”
In his response, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang expressed profound appreciation for the visit and solidarity demonstrated by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
“On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, I sincerely thank you for this kind gesture. Your presence here is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in this moment of grief. It gives us hope and strength,” he said.
Describing the recent attacks as “senseless and deeply regrettable,” the Governor mourned the loss of innocent lives and reiterated his administration’s commitment to restoring normalcy in the affected areas.
“Since assuming office, we have made significant strides in uniting our people across faiths and ethnicities. For over a year, Plateau State had stayed out of negative headlines. The resurgence of violence has been a painful setback, but we remain undeterred.”
Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed the resilience of the Plateau people and his administration’s resolve to rebuild and strengthen peace.
“Our people are strong and hopeful. This is an obstruction, but by God’s grace, we will rise above it. We are more determined than ever to move forward. Plateau remains the Home of Peace and Tourism.”
He also pledged to continue reviewing and improving security strategies while welcoming fresh ideas and collaboration from stakeholders.
“We do not claim to have all the answers. We are open to new perspectives and ready to address our weaknesses. Together, we will build a more secure and united Plateau.”
In a heartfelt statewide broadcast, Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has announced decisive security measures following fresh attacks that have claimed dozens of lives in Bassa and Bokkos Local Government Areas.
Speaking solemnly, the governor said, “I speak to you not just as your Governor, but as your brother—one who deeply feels the pain and sorrow that has again darkened our land.”
The most recent violence occurred in the late hours of Sunday, April 13, when Zikke Village in Bassa came under a deadly attack, resulting in the death of innocent men, women, and children.
This attack followed closely on the heels of another tragic incident in Bokkos, where over 50 lives were lost. Governor Mutfwang described the violence as “calculated, persistent, and painful—but Plateau remains unbroken.”
He commended emergency responders and security forces for their swift action and appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for directing federal forces to act swiftly in pursuit of justice.
As part of the new security measures taking effect from Wednesday, April 16th, the Governor announced a strict ban on night grazing across the state, aiming to reduce security threats and curb movement of suspected attackers.
Additionally, he banned the transportation of cattle after 7 PM and restricted motorcycle movement across the state from 7 PM to 6 AM, saying these have been used as tools to facilitate attacks.
To support affected communities, the governor ordered all hospitals in the attacked areas to provide free medical care to victims, while assuring that “relief materials are already on their way.”
He called on traditional rulers and youth leaders to mobilize and “revive local vigilante patrols in partnership with security forces,” urging community-based cooperation in defending the land.
Governor Mutfwang expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved families, saying, “To the grieving families in Zikwe, Bokkos, and beyond—your pain is ours. We mourn with you, and we will not rest until peace is restored.”
He concluded with a rallying call for unity and strength: “Let us remain calm, vigilant, and united. Together, we will rise beyond this grief—stronger, safer, and more determined than ever.”
With these new measures in place, Plateau State begins yet another chapter in its determined fight to protect lives and restore peace across its troubled communities.
CHIEF KEFAS CONDEMNS KILLINGS ON THE PLATEAU, CALLS FOR MOBILISATION OF LOCAL VIGILANTEES TO TACKLE INSECURITY
I am deeply grieved and outraged by the barbaric killing of hundreds of innocent people in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas of Plateau State over the last two weeks. This recurring violence against peaceful communities is not only heartbreaking, but it also underscores a tragic failure in our collective responsibility to protect human life and dignity.
I cannot, in good conscience, remain silent while our people are butchered in their sleep. The time for mere condemnation has passed. We must now rise with purpose and determination to defend our communities against these heinous acts.
Let me remind us all of the words of our Lord Jesus Christ in
Luke 22:36: “Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.”
Even Christ acknowledged the need for self-defence in times of danger. We are a peace-loving people, but peace does not mean surrendering our lives to bloodthirsty criminals without resistance.
I am calling on the Plateau State Government to act boldly and urgently. Just as the governments of Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto States have done, I urge our leaders to empower local vigilante groups with the necessary tools to defend our communities. Let them be equipped with licensed firearms, communication devices, and logistical support to monitor and report suspicious movements to the security agencies in real time.
Our vigilante groups are not outsiders – they are sons and daughters of the soil who know every footpath, every forest, and every stranger. Their knowledge and presence are invaluable in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and targeted killings.
We cannot continue to bury our brothers and sisters while hoping for salvation from afar. Security is a shared responsibility. The people must be empowered to protect themselves while working hand-in-hand with conventional forces.
I call on our traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth organisations to rally together. We must not only mourn the dead – we must defend the living. The time to act is now.
The Federal Government has declared Friday, April 18 and Monday April 21 as public holidays for Good Friday and Easter Monday, respectively.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holidays on behalf of the Federal Government.
Tunji-Ojo extended heartfelt congratulations to Christians across the country on this joyous occasion.
The Minister in a statement by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani, emphasised the importance of embodying the virtues of the sacrifice and love displayed by Jesus Christ, having to die for the redemption of man.
He also called on Nigerians to use the holiday period to pray for the peace, unity, and stability of the nation.
He reassured citizens of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to foster national growth and development.
He encouraged Nigerians to extend love and goodwill to their neighbours through acts of kindness and generosity.
The Minister wished all Christians a blissful Easter celebration and extended warm holiday greetings to all Nigerians.
The Executive Director of COA Media and Convener of the Plateau Man of the Year Awards (PMYA), Ambassador Cletus Akhimien, has strongly condemned the recent violent attacks in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas of Plateau State, which led to the loss of several innocent lives.
In a heartfelt statement, Ambassador Akhimien expressed profound grief and extended his condolences to the bereaved families and communities affected by the senseless violence. He described the attacks as tragic and unacceptable, urging swift justice and accountability for those responsible. We mourn with the victims and their loved ones during this painful time. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Justice must prevail and those behind these killings must be held accountable,” he stated.
Ambassador Akhimien commended the Plateau State Government efforts led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for its prompt and decisive response in restoring peace and safeguarding lives. He noted that the swift intervention helped mitigate further casualties and reassured the public of the government’s commitment to peace and security.
He also called on community stakeholders, security agencies and civil society groups to collaborate in ending the cycle of killing and working towards sustainable peace in Plateau State. Now more than ever, we must unite to end bloodshed and safeguard the future of our people, violence is never the answer, We must protect human life and build bridges of understanding,” he said.
Ambassador Akhimien reaffirmed the commitment of COA Media and the Plateau Man of the Year Awards to promoting peace, unity and progress in Plateau State. He emphasized that the mission of PMYA remains to recognize and celebrate individuals and organizations contributing positively to the state’s development and peaceful coexistence.
“The PMYA stands in solidarity with the people of Plateau State and Governor Caleb Mutfwang. Together, we can build a united and prosperous future for all,” he concluded.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Tuesday visited Zikke and Kimakpa villages in Kwall District, Miango, following a brutal overnight attack that left more than 50 people dead. The governor extended his condolences to grieving families and reassured them of the government’s commitment to their safety and recovery.
Expressing profound grief over the tragedy, Governor Mutfwang acknowledged that despite security measures, the government was unable to prevent the bloodshed.
“The entire nation stands with you in mourning, and so does the international community. Since yesterday, I have been overcome with sorrow,” the governor said. “We took all necessary steps to avert this, yet we failed you. On behalf of the government and security agencies, we ask for your forgiveness.”
He strongly condemned the persistent violence targeting Irigwe communities and vowed to intensify efforts to restore peace. The governor also highlighted the region’s deteriorating infrastructure, worsened by years of insecurity and neglect.
“This is not the time for blame but for unity. Those behind these attacks are not invisible—they are known, and anyone protecting them is equally guilty,” he declared.
Governor Mutfwang also relayed President Bola Tinubu’s assurances of federal intervention, emphasizing that the government’s goal was not just survival but the prosperity of the affected communities in their homeland.
The Bra Ngwe Irigwe, Rt. Rev. Ronku Aka, the traditional ruler of the Irigwe people, thanked the governor for his visit and solidarity. He denounced the repeated violent attempts to displace his people, calling for heightened community vigilance while urging against reprisals.
The governor spoke to residents at Zikke Primary School, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to pursue justice and sustainable peace in the region.
Troops of the 3rd Amored Division Nigerian Army and Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) yesterday rescued 16 passengers kidnapped along Jos – Mangu road in Plateau State.
This was contained in a statement signed by Samson Nantip Zhakom , the Media Information Officer Operation of OPSH and made available to newsmen in Jos.
He said ” The rescue operation began when troops discovered an empty vehicle abandoned by the roadside at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area of the State at about 9pm local time on 13 April 2025.
The troops immediately searched the nearby bushes to trace the occupants of the vehicle suspected to have been kidnapped. The kidnappers, on sighting the troops opened fire, but own troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower forcing them to abandon the victims and fled.
The statement added that Troops exploited the general area and rescued all 16 abducted passengers which included 6 children.
Troops administered first aid to some of the rescued victims who sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Thereafter, troops escorted the victims to safety to continue their journey to Jos Metropolis. Meanwhile, troops are on the lookout for the fleeing kidnappers suspected to have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter with troops.
OPSH reiterates its commitment to protecting lives and property within the Joint Operations Area, while troops remain motivated to deny miscreants freedom of action.
A 28-year-old internet fraudster from Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State has voluntarily surrendered to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Benin.
The EFCC made this known in a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, @officialEFCC, at 4:31 PM on Thursday.
According to the agency, the man turned himself in on Monday, April 8, to the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACEI Effam Okim.
The suspect explained his reason for surrendering, saying, “I reported myself because I wanted to stop and turn a new leaf.”
He also confessed to being involved in romance scam activities.
“I tell my victims that I am from China and that I work as a medical doctor in a war-torn country.
“My victims are foreigners who I deceive into love relationships. I communicate with them in Chinese using a mobile app translator.
“I profess love for them by telling them how beautiful and attractive they are,” he added.
The EFCC noted that the suspect’s decision to surrender was driven by fear of being apprehended.
He told officials he no longer wanted to continue with the fraudulent practice.
The Commission described the development as encouraging and said investigations are ongoing.
Security guards have foil and arrested a 35-year-old man, Musa Ibrahim of Maduganari area, Maiduguri, for attempting to gain unlawful access into the private residence of Senator Kashim Shettima, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on April 9 at about 0530hrs at the residence located in New GRA, Gwange 3 Ward off Bama Road, Maiduguri, the capital of the restive Borno State.
The sources said that the suspect reportedly attempted to scale the perimeter wall through the Gadabul River bank behind the western side of the residence.
On sighting the security personnel, the suspect tried to escape but was shot in the leg and subsequently arrested.
He was immediately taken to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), where he is currently receiving treatment and responding.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation.
Meanwhile, security deployment at the residence of the vice President has been reviewed and strengthened.
