Nigeria’s Northern States Governors’ Forum has denounced the murder of civilians travelling from Kaduna to attend a wedding in Plateau State, calling the attack “inhuman” and urging immediate justice and national unity in its aftermath.
The Forum’s Chairman, Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, issued the condemnation in a statement through his media aide, Ismail Uba-Misilli, on Sunday.
The attack, which took place in Mangu on Friday, resulted in the death of several innocent travellers. The victims were reportedly ambushed en route to a wedding celebration.
Governor Yahaya described the assault as a “heinous crime” and a direct threat to societal harmony. “I am deeply saddened by this horrific and inhumane attack,” he said. “There is no justification for such violence. It is a violation of every principle of human dignity and justice.”
Offering condolences to families of the victims, Yahaya praised the swift intervention by Plateau State officials and security operatives, who have already apprehended several suspects linked to the killings.
He called for a comprehensive investigation and underscored the importance of ensuring full accountability to prevent further erosion of public trust in security institutions.
“This isn’t only about justice—it’s about preserving hope in a country where too many lives have been lost to violence,” he said.
The governor also made a plea for restraint, urging residents in affected states not to resort to reprisals. “We must not allow violence to breed more violence. Let’s not permit division to replace unity,” he added.
The Forum reaffirmed its dedication to tackling insecurity through regional collaboration, while emphasising the importance of addressing the deeper socioeconomic drivers of conflict.
The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents to rock Plateau State, which remains one of the flashpoints in Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis.
