In response to a surge in deadly violence across Plateau and Benue States, Vice President Kashim Shettima is scheduled to visit Plateau State today (Monday), following a direct order from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The visit comes amid rising public outcry after coordinated attacks on communities in Bokkos and Bassa left scores dead and thousands displaced.
Over 100 people have been reportedly killed in the renewed wave of violence, sparking urgent calls for government intervention. The Vice President’s visit aims to assess the situation firsthand, engage with local stakeholders, and spearhead efforts to restore peace and security in the affected areas.
Confirming the development, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, who toured Bassa over the weekend, said the President is deeply alarmed by the attacks.
“Mr. President is deeply concerned about these killings. That is why the National Security Adviser visited recently, and now the Vice President is coming to engage stakeholders directly,” Yilwatda said.
Shettima is expected to lead a high-level stakeholders’ meeting focused on strengthening inter-agency security coordination and supporting grassroots peacebuilding initiatives.
Meanwhile, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, who also visited the region alongside top military commanders including Maj. Gen. Folusho Oyinlola, assured residents that justice would be pursued for the victims.
“We are seriously investigating and actively pursuing the perpetrators. By God’s grace, they will be brought to justice,” Badaru stated.
He also revealed that support programs targeting victims—particularly widows and vulnerable groups—are being rolled out, with further humanitarian assistance on the way.
