The Kaduna State Government has expressed worry over the escalating tension in Atyap Chiefdom of Zangon Kataf local government area of the State following the sequence of violent incidents,attacks and counter attacks.
The Government in a statement by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan called on community leaders to de-escalate tension and find a way of enabling peace in the community.
The government noted with growing concern that groups opposed to peaceful coexistence are perpetuating violence against innocent citizens which has assumed very worrisome dimensions.
The Government assures the peace loving people of the affected communities and the State at large of its commitment to law and order.
According to Aruwan, the State government has directed security agencies to take drastic actions to forestall any recurrence of violence.
He added that Search-and-rescue operations by troops and police are in progress to protect lives and properties, rescue missing citizens and apprehend the perpetrators of violence.
” Amidst the grim situation, it is clear that the vast majority of the citizens from all the ethnic groups in the area sincerely desire, and are working for peace. These men and women have stood out as shining examples of resistance to the violent actions of few criminals and people of ill-will.”
While commending their exemplary action, Governor Nasir El-Rufai however appealed to them to continue their sacrificial work, until they collectively triumph over the forces of darkness.
He assured that government is working with security agencies to ensure the thorough investigation of all incidents of violence in the area and perpetrators identified and prosecuted.
El-Rufai also called on community leaders to de-escalate tensions and actively ramp up efforts for peaceful coexistence in the area, to enable the success of these processes without disruption.
” The Kaduna State Government also appeals to men and women of goodwill to join this campaign, and dominate the area with the message of peace and togetherness.
” The Government remains open to collaboration towards this end; citizens may volunteer useful information on the Operations Room emergency lines 09034000060 and 08170189999.” he said.
