The Plateau State Government has condemned the reported attack on traders returning from the Bukuru Kara Livestock Market in Jos South Local Government Area of the state.
The traders, said to be seven in number, were injured after suspected gunmen opened fire on the vehicle conveying them around the State Low-Cost Housing area in Bukuru.
The government, in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, on Monday, described the incident as sad and unacceptable and extended condolences to the victims and their families.
It said Governor Caleb Mutfwang had directed security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the identities and motives of those responsible.
The government also called on communities, traders, pastoralists and other stakeholders to remain calm and resist attempts to escalate tensions or deepen divisions.
“There must be no room for reprisal attacks or the taking of the law into individual hands,” the statement said.
It added that while security agencies continued their investigation, the government was engaging relevant stakeholders to strengthen security along vulnerable routes and prevent further attacks.
The government urged residents to provide useful information to security authorities that could assist the investigation.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and creating a peaceful environment where all law-abiding citizens could live, work and pursue their legitimate businesses without fear.
Earlier, the Plateau State Police Command spokesperson, Alfred Alabo, said the injured victims had been traced to the Military Clinic, Rukuba Barracks, Jos, where they were receiving medical attention.
Alabo added that investigations into the incident were ongoing to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.