As part of efforts to bring relief to victims of recent herdsmen attacks in Plateau State, a businessman and philanthropist, Mr. John Gamasaura Katura, has donated food and non-food items worth millions of naira to displaced families in Zike and Kimakpa communities, Bassa Local Government Area.
Katura, who is the Managing Director/CEO of JOKATU Property Development Limited, Abuja, also called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts in ending the cycle of violence across rural communities.
Represented by a delegation led by Pastor Yohanna Dalla Magaji, the team first visited the palace of the District Head of Kimakpa, Chief Luka Miri, where condolences were extended on behalf of Katura.
Describing the attacks as “man’s inhumanity to man,” Pastor Magaji said Katura was deeply saddened by the killings and condemned the barbaric acts in strong terms.
“Mr. Katura prays that such ugly incidents never happen again. He commends the traditional ruler for his steadfastness in defending his people even in these trying times,” Magaji said.
In his response, Chief Luka Miri expressed profound appreciation to Katura, the Anaguta people, and all those standing with the community during its darkest moment.
“What you have done for us today will further strengthen the bond between the Irigwe and Anaguta nations. Kindly extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Katura and the Ujah Anaguta,“he said.
The traditional ruler also praised Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other prominent Plateau citizens for their continued support and solidarity, while urging unity among communities to resist external threats.
“We must remain united to defend our ancestral land and the resources God has given us,”he added.
At the Primary School, Zike, where the relief materials were distributed, Pastor Magaji reiterated Katura’s commitment to supporting communities affected by violence.
“The bond between Jos North and Bassa people remains strong, and we believe it will grow even stronger. Mr. Katura shares in your grief and prays for comfort and healing for all the bereaved,” he stated.
Chairman of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA) in Kimakpa District, Yusuf Mwa Nze, who also chaired the Committee on Relief Materials, thanked Katura for his timely intervention.
Ayo Joyce Sunday, Vice President of the Irigwe Youth Movement, similarly prayed for abundant blessings upon him.
Several beneficiaries, speaking with journalists, described the donation as a lifeline in a time of great despair.
Wiki, a 35-year-old widow who lost her husband to the attack, said: “I have heard of Mr. Katura’s generosity before, but I never imagined I would one day be a beneficiary. May God continue to bless and keep him for us.”
Another victim, Jennifer Moses, who lost her father and three brothers, added: “May God bless Mr. John and enlarge his coast.”
Aboro Moses, who lost two relatives and had properties destroyed, said: “Just as the assailants will answer for their wicked acts, those who stand with us in our distress, like Mr. Katura, will receive heavenly rewards.”
Items donated included bundles of roofing sheets, bags of maize, and cartons of noodles among other essentials.
