Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, visited Binda in Tahos Village, Riyom Local Government Area, where a “brutal and genocidal attack carried out by suspected Fulani militias claimed innocent lives”.
Governor Mutfwang’s visit to This Village was made known via a Statement titled ‘Governor Mutfwang visits attacked communities in Riyom LGA, sympathizes with survivors, reaffirms commitment I protect lives and property’, signed by Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, on Thursday 17 July, 2025.
The attack which happened on Tuesday 15 July, 2025 left many with injuries, homes destroyed including a church.
According to the Statement: “It was a heart-wrenching and deeply emotional moment as the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, visited Binda in Tahos Village, Riyom Local Government Area, the scene of a brutal and genocidal attack carried out by suspected Fulani militias.
“The heinous attack, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 15, 2025, claimed innocent lives, left many others injured, and resulted in the destruction of homes, including a church. Food items belonging to villagers were also looted by the attackers, compounding the tragedy.
“Disturbing eyewitness accounts from survivors revealed that the armed assailants invaded the community in large numbers, and military operatives stationed 200 meters away couldn’t intervene successfully to prevent the carnage, with no arrests made in the aftermath.
“Addressing the traumatized residents, Governor Mutfwang condemned the killings in strong terms and assured the people that his administration would not abandon them in their time of grief. He pledged a comprehensive review of the state’s security architecture to ensure those charged with the protection of lives and property discharge their responsibilities without compromise.
““Let me promise you, by the grace of God, Riyom will not fall,” the Governor declared. “We will deploy every resource at our disposal to end this genocide. This is not a case of farmer-herder conflict.This is terrorism; this is genocide, plain and simple. And I assure you, we will escalate this matter to the highest levels.”
“Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the efforts of gallant soldiers who have stood firm in defense of Plateau communities but noted that some bad elements within the security agencies must be identified and removed for peace to reign.
““We cannot continue like this. These attackers are not spirits, real people carried out these atrocities and vanished without a trace. Sector Commander, you were in command when suspects were arrested over a soldier’s death. Why are there no arrests today? Those young men currently held must be released immediately unless you have solid evidence to charge them to court,” the Governor demanded.
“He urged the affected communities to find solace in God, assuring that the government will organize a dignified burial for those killed and take steps to support those who lost their homes.
““To our elders and youth, please remain calm and vigilant. I thank our young people across these areas for their courage in defending their communities. We see you, we appreciate you, and we will continue to support you morally and otherwise to ensure that no one drives you from your ancestral lands.”
“Governor Mutfwang called on the security agencies to stop targeting scapegoats and go after the real perpetrators.
““I want to hear of arrests, not excuses. The era of so-called ‘unknown gunmen’ is over. These killers live among us and must be brought to justice. Let them serve as an example to deter others who plan to destabilize our communities.
““To our security forces: you are not here on a peacekeeping mission. You are deployed to protect the lives and property of Nigerians. Anyone threatening these lives is an enemy of the state and must be treated accordingly,” he emphasized.
“The Governor also extended his visit to Gwong, Fang, Keng, and Rachi communities in Bachit District of Riyom LGA, all of which have recently suffered similar deadly attacks. He sympathized with the people, encouraging them to remain resilient and steadfast in defending their ancestral heritage.
“Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Riyom LGA, Rev. Davou Musa, blamed the military for failing in its duty to protect the people. He accused some personnel of complicity by shielding the attackers and called on the Federal Government to withdraw the military from the area. He also appealed for urgent humanitarian relief to support the survivors.”
