Plateau Delegation Visits Zaria Over Mangu Killings
A high-level delegation from Plateau State has paid a condolence visit to the Zazzau Emirate Council in Kaduna State, following the tragic killing of wedding-bound travelers from Zaria in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau.
The visit came after public outcry, particularly from the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, who had earlier expressed disappointment over the Plateau State government’s delay in officially sympathizing with the victims’ families.
The incident, which occurred on June 20, claimed the lives of at least 13 travelers from Basawa community in Zaria, who were en route to attend a wedding ceremony in Pau. Eleven others sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized.
Leading the delegation, the Emir of Wase, Alhaji Sambo Mohammed, acknowledged the delay and explained that the visit was postponed due to security advice.
“We had initially intended to come earlier, but we were asked to hold off for security reasons. It is only now that we received the green light to proceed with the visit,” he said.
The Emir noted that a second delegation would soon follow up for further engagement with key stakeholders regarding the incident.
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On behalf of the Plateau State government, he tendered an apology to the Zazzau Emirate and families of the victims, assuring them of justice. According to him, 22 suspects have already been arrested in connection with the attack.
Responding, Emir Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli appreciated the visit and accepted the explanation given for the delay. He emphasized the long-standing bond between Kaduna and Plateau States, urging both sides to ensure that the unfortunate actions of a few individuals do not undermine their shared history of peaceful coexistence.
The Emir called on stakeholders to intensify peacebuilding efforts to foster harmony across communities.
Speaking on behalf of the grieving Basawa community, Malam Yakubu Yusuf of Unguwar Dantsoho thanked the delegation for their show of concern. He, however, appealed for financial and humanitarian support for the bereaved families, noting that most of the deceased were breadwinners who left behind widows and orphans.
Members of the delegation included the Plateau State Attorney-General, the Sarkin Mangu, other traditional rulers, the Chairman of Plateau ALGON, as well as the Chairmen of Mangu and Quan’Pan Local Government Areas. Several elder statesmen also accompanied the team.
By PRNigeria
