A new report has revealed that Plateau State has suffered massive destruction over the last two decades, with more than 12,000 people killed and about 450 communities wiped out by continuous violence.
The report was prepared by a fact-finding committee set up by Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on May 20, 2025. The 10-man committee was asked to uncover the root causes of the constant attacks and to record the number of communities and people affected since 2001.
The committee, led by retired Major General Nicholas Rogers, submitted its findings to Governor Mutfwang at the Government House in Rayfield on Thursday. The report showed that the ongoing crisis has destroyed entire communities and badly affected the economic, social, and commercial life of the people.
General Rogers revealed that suspected Fulani militias and armed herders were behind many of the attacks. He said the violence has claimed over 12,000 lives, with the real figure likely to be higher because some cases were never reported.
The committee reached these figures after weeks of visiting affected communities, speaking with survivors, working with security agencies, and reviewing evidence given by victims.
According to the report, more than 450 communities were attacked between 2001 and May 2025. Apart from the killings, the attackers caused huge damage including 35% destruction of livestock, 32.5% displacement of communities, 16.8% loss of food supplies, 9.9% destruction of homes, and 3.4% illegal occupation of land.
The report also explained that the violence is linked to criminal exploitation of Plateau’s natural resources, land disputes, historical grudges, and ethnic mistrust. Rogers stressed that the attacks are well-coordinated and intentional, with serious consequences for the people. He said this tragedy should be seen as an opportunity for strong leadership and peace building.
Governor Mutfwang thanked the committee for their hard work and promised that the report would be forwarded to the Federal Government. He said his administration has already started recruiting over 1,000 new operatives into Operation Rainbow, the state security outfit, for training.
The governor also stated that the Peace Building Agency is increasing its activities at the community level. He explained that the solution is not just military action but also dialogue and community peace efforts.
Mutfwang assured Plateau people that his government is focused on reducing poverty, improving infrastructure, and investing in human capital development. He urged citizens to embrace peace and unity for the future of the state.
