GOVERNOR MUTFWANG WARNS OF ORGANISED LAND GRABS BEHIND PLATEAU VIOLENCE

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has linked the ongoing insecurity in the state to a calculated effort at economic sabotage, claiming the crisis is part of a wider plot to dispossess farming communities and keep the state’s agrarian population in poverty.
In a candid media chat on Thursday, June 16th Mutfwang debunked the prevailing narrative of farmers-herders clashes, insisting the crisis has evolved into a coordinated campaign to drive rural dwellers off their ancestral lands. “This is no longer about cattle rustling. It is organised criminality disguised as conflict,” the governor said.
Mutfwang pointed to the pattern of attacks, especially during farming seasons, as proof of a deliberate effort to cripple Plateau’s agricultural base. Citing Mangu, a critical food hub in the state, he warned that the violence was timed to prevent cultivation and economic stability.
Calling once again for the establishment of state police, the governor argued that security should be localised and intelligence-driven. He said only grassroots policing can stop the level of coordination seen in the attacks.
Meanwhile, Governor Mutfwang unveiled a strategic plan to transform Plateau’s agricultural sector—starting with a complete rebranding of Irish potatoes as “Plateau Potatoes.” He announced ongoing talks with Dutch seed company Agrico to introduce improved potato breeds and boost exports. Plateau will also host the African Potato Conference in 2028.
The governor noted that Nigerian hotels import potatoes from South Africa due to quality concerns, which he blamed on poor storage, inconsistent standards, and lack of traceability. These, he said, would be resolved through systemic reforms.
Beyond security and agriculture, Mutfwang discussed infrastructural development, education reform, and interfaith inclusivity. He also confirmed ongoing audits to address ghost workers, including the discovery of 600 redundant staff at the Plateau State House of Assembly.
“I believe in capacity and transparency,” he said, pledging to build a Plateau that works for all, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation.