Gov. Lalong Apologizes to Ondo Over Rukuba attack

Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has apologized to the government and people of Ondo State following the Rukuba road attack leading to the killing of their people.

Recall that about 23 people from Ondo, passing through Jos, were killed on August 14, while 23 were reportedly injured.

They were attacked on their way to Ondo along Rukuba Road in Jos North Local Government Area of which more than 30 were rescued by security agents.

Gov. Lalong, through his deputy, Prof. Sonny Tyoden, apologised for the attack that led a delegation from the state to Ondo for a condolence visit, and to formally deliver the survivors of the unfortunate attacks.

The governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Makut Macham, in a statement of apology, stated that the deputy governor explained that the visit was to convey the condolences and apologies of the people and Plateau State government to their families as well as the entire people of Ondo State.

He asked for forgiveness for the actions of the criminals who perpetrated the act, explaining that they acted on their own as they did not represent any religious, ethnic or social interest in the attack.

The deputy governor noted that Lalong has been distressed since the incident happened, stressing that it is an attempt to jeopardise the substantial peace restored in the last six years since his assumption of office in the state.

He expressed the state government’s commitment to protecting lives and properties of all Nigerians, assuring that the culprits involved would be brought to book as many arrests have been made.

Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo, while responding, thanked Lalong for his quick intervention and other proactive measures taken to prevent the situation from escalating.

Akeredolu, represented by his deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, explained that on receiving the news, immediately went to the cattle market to sympathise with the leadership of the Fulani brethren over the incident.

The governor assured of his administration’s concern on the welfare of all citizens irrespective of their backgrounds, and appreciated his colleague for sending a high level delegation to accompany their people back home.

The South-East leader, Fulani ethnic group, Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed, said they have forgiven all in the interest of peace and stability of Nigeria.

He assured that there would be no reprisals as they were happy to see their brothers back in their midst.

According to him, Nigeria is greater than any individual or interest groups.

The deputy governor, Prof. Sonny Tyoden, was accompanied by the Emir of Wase, Dr Mohammed Haruna; Yoruba Community Leader in Plateau, Chief Jide Olagbemiro; and Alhaji Nura Mohammad, Plateau Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in Nigeria (MACBAN), among others.