The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has condemned the recent killings in Plateau state, expressing concern over the recurring violence and its consequences for families and communities. In a statement signed by NCA Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the association warned that Nigerians must not become so accustomed to violence that the death of innocent citizens is treated as an ordinary occurrence. The latest attacks across communities in the state reportedly claimed at least nine lives, including a pastor on his way to church.
According to the NCA, every life lost represents a human tragedy that should command the attention of government and society, irrespective of ethnic, religious or political differences. The association stressed that the frequency of attacks must not diminish the value attached to human life or weaken the collective sensitivity of Nigerians to the suffering of victims and their families. Hayab said the latest incidents demonstrated the need for stakeholders to remain vigilant and committed to finding sustainable solutions to security challenges in Plateau and other parts of the country.
The reported attacks occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning, with community sources putting the immediate death toll at at least nine. Five people travelling towards Gana-Ropp in Barkin Ladi were reportedly killed when their vehicle came under attack, while a pastor and another person were killed on their way to church at Dorowa Babuje. Separate attacks were also reported at Baten Wereng and Ratyidi. Hayab questioned whether lives had become so cheap that they could be taken at will, emphasizing that every life matters.
The NCA commended the Federal and Plateau State governments, as well as security personnel who continue to operate in difficult circumstances to protect citizens. Hayab acknowledged the risks being taken by personnel deployed to vulnerable communities, stressing that security officers also require the support and cooperation of residents to effectively discharge their responsibilities. He urged the authorities to sustain and strengthen their interventions by paying greater attention to intelligence gathering and early warning mechanisms.
Hayab said a combination of effective intelligence, timely deployment and stronger community engagement could help security agencies respond more effectively to threats in vulnerable areas. He noted that communities that have experienced repeated attacks often live under a heightened sense of fear, particularly when residents cannot predict where or when another incident might occur. The NCA urged the relevant authorities to review security arrangements in vulnerable parts of Plateau and identify areas requiring additional protection.
The association emphasized the importance of closer cooperation between security agencies and local residents, who are often the first to observe unusual movements or suspicious activities. Hayab called for reliable and confidential channels through which community members can pass information to security agencies without fear of retaliation or exposure. He said community engagement should not be limited to periods immediately following an attack but should form part of a continuous security strategy.
In response to the latest attacks, the Plateau State Government introduced additional security measures, including a dusk-to-dawn curfew on Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu local government areas. The government also banned the use of motorcycles throughout the affected areas. The NCA’s position emphasizes ensuring that immediate security responses are complemented by intelligence-led measures capable of addressing the threats that produce recurring attacks.
Key points
- The Northern Christian Association warns Nigerians against becoming accustomed to violence in Plateau state.
- The association emphasizes the need for sustained collaboration among government, security agencies and local communities to prevent further loss of lives.
- The Plateau State Government introduces a curfew and motorcycle ban in affected areas.
