Grief, anger, and frustration erupted in Anguwan Rukuba on Monday as furious youths confronted Caleb Mutfwang following a deadly overnight attack that reportedly claimed at least 26 lives in yet another wave of violence rocking Plateau State.
According to reports earlier published by SaharaReporters, the victims were killed during a brutal Palm Sunday assault, while several others sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment in hospitals.
A video obtained from the scene captured Governor Mutfwang standing atop a bulletproof armoured vehicle as he attempted to address visibly angry youths amid heightened tension, mourning, and confusion across the community.
“Youth, are you hearing me?” the governor repeatedly called out while speaking partly in Hausa, attempting to calm the restless crowd.
However, the angry youths rejected the distant address, shouting back at the governor and demanding that he step down from the armoured vehicle and face them directly.
“We are not hearing you! Come down from the armour!” the youths shouted, accusing authorities of remaining distant from the suffering of affected communities.
The confrontation underscored growing frustration among residents who say government officials often appear insulated from the harsh realities faced by communities repeatedly targeted by armed attackers.
Responding to the demands, Governor Mutfwang told the crowd, “If you keep mute, I will come to wherever you want me to come,” as the already charged atmosphere intensified.
For several tense minutes, the scene remained chaotic as grieving families wailed, youths shouted in anger, and residents demanded immediate security intervention. Calm was eventually restored after appeals from community leaders and elders.
Governor Mutfwang later told residents he had not slept since learning about the attack, insisting he rushed to the scene out of concern for the victims.
“I came here not because you asked me to come. I did not set my eyes on sleep. I want you to know that I did not sleep in Jos,” he told the mourning crowd.
“I know you are all angry about the incident that happened. I know you are all crying. As you see me also, I am crying about the situation,” the governor added, appealing for calm and patience.
Despite his plea, many youths insisted on immediate government action, including relaxation of the curfew imposed in the area, which they argued was worsening their hardship and limiting movement in an already traumatised community.
The latest killings have once again exposed the persistent insecurity plaguing Plateau communities, particularly in rural and semi-urban settlements where residents say armed groups frequently launch deadly attacks with little resistance.
Residents say the recurring violence, coupled with what they described as slow security response and lack of accountability, has deepened distrust between the people and government authorities.
For many in Anguwan Rukuba, the confrontation with Governor Mutfwang reflected more than anger — it symbolised growing desperation, fear, and a community tired of burying its dead while waiting for protection that rarely comes.