Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has called the March 29 attack in Jos a temporary setback, reaffirming confidence in overcoming the state's security challenges. He made the statement on Thursday during President Bola Tinubu's visit to the state, following the deadly incident in which gunmen opened fire at a busy junction, killing at least 28 people, including University of Jos students and staff. "This incident of last Sunday is a temporary setback. I am persuaded that, by the grace of God, we will overcome that setback and continue on our trajectory to peace, tourism, and stability," Mutfwang said. He praised security agencies for their efforts, noting that many successes go unreported. "People only notice the breaches that occur; they never get to know the ones that are prevented," he added. Mutfwang credited the armed forces and the Inspector-General of Police for ongoing support, expressing belief that the state would prevail. Sporadic violence followed the attack, especially near the University of Jos, prompting the evacuation of students after the institution was closed. Security has been heightened, but tensions remain high in parts of the city.
Caleb Mutfwang is framing mass killings as a "temporary setback" while students are evacuated and residents live under siege. When a governor normalises bloodshed with religious reassurance instead of accountability, it signals a leadership comfortable with crisis, not solutions. Nigerians in Plateau are not asking for prayers—they are waiting to see if words will finally match the scale of the violence they endure.
