The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has urged all stakeholders in Plateau State to prioritise peace and unity over violence and division.
Abdulrazak made the call on Thursday in Jos, Plateau State when he led some state governors on a condolence visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang over the recent killings in the state .
The NGF Chairman stressed that progress and development are only possible in a peaceful atmosphere.
He commiserated with the government and people of Plateau State over recent violent attacks that claimed many lives.
Governor Abdulrazaq, who led the delegation comprising his counterparts from Borno, Bauchi, Benue, Oyo States, and the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, was received in Jos by Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang.
“On behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the people of our states, I bring you sincere words of condolences on the unfortunate events in which many of our compatriots have lost their lives,” he said.
He appealed to community leaders, religious figures, and youth influencers to reject violence and commit to peaceful dialogue.
According to him, the future of Plateau State lies in its agricultural and tourism potential, which could be undermined by conflict.
“We call on leaders and influencers across all communities and sectors in Plateau to join His Excellency in the task of uniting the people and restoring sustainable peace.
“Leaders, including youth leaders, should come together to speak strongly against violence of any kind,” he said.
Governor Abdulrazaq also commended the efforts of security agencies whose swift intervention helped to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
He praised Governor Mutfwang’s leadership during the trying period and offered prayers for peace and the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives.
“Our visit is to express our solidarity with His Excellency and the government and good people of Plateau State.
“We pray to God Almighty to repose the souls of the victims and restore peace to our communities,” he added.
The NGF’s visit is seen as a show of unity among Nigerian governors and a call for stronger collaborative efforts in addressing insecurity and promoting peaceful coexistence across the country.
