The Mangu Old Students Association (MAOSA) has strongly condemned the horrific loss of over 400 lives in Mangu Local Council of Plateau State over the past two months, attributed to armed gunmen.
Old students of the school, now known as Government Science Secondary School (GSSS), Mangu, lamented that the incessant attacks and killings had grievous effects the state’s educational and economic growth.
Coordinator of Set ‘85, ‘The Pillar Set’ of the association, Philemon Dagwa, and the Secretary, Wajal Nyalwat, stated this, yesterday, after a meeting at the Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi.
The Pillar Set described as callous and unacceptable the incessant destruction of life and property across Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos and Bassa local councils.
It stated: “We totally condemn the conscious and well calculated evil attack and massacre of lives and destruction of properties in Mangu by some people, who do not want peace in Plateau.
“Markets and schools in Washna, Jing, Lakas, Pushit, Kombun and other villages have been destroyed along with houses and churches, making it near impossible for students to resume studies.”
It is unfortunate that markets are closed and pupils are still at home because the schools are no more. They can not even return to their homes that are destroyed due to the activities of the dare devil attackers.”
The alumni called on the Federal Government, corporate organisations and philanthropists to assist the affected villagers, many of whom were taking refuge in some churches and schools in various towns and nearby communities.
MAOSA commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration for quick response at arresting the situation and restoring the peace being enjoyed in Mangu.
It stated: “We are also grateful to the First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, for coming to the aid of the survivors and displaced persons with N500 million donation.”
The association commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives in the crisis and prayed God to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
The set, whose meeting reunited mates after 38 years, resolved to make their impact felt by their alma mater by providing some of the needs of the school.
