The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the ongoing attacks on citizens in Plateau State, which occur daily, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. The association highlighted recent sustained attacks in the Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Bokkos Local Government Areas. These attacks have left dozens dead and many more injured. The NBA expressed its discontent with the apparent lack of responsiveness from government officials at all levels regarding their responsibility to protect lives and property.
During a press briefing in Jos, the association emphasized that the ongoing cycle of violence against law-abiding citizens devalues the social contract and undermines public trust in the government. The statement, signed by several NBA branch chairmen and chairwomen, noted that the killings had continued despite the declaration of a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the three local government areas. This has led to increased concerns about the government's ability to protect its citizens.
The NBA also expressed dismay that while locals were encouraged to defend themselves, they have themselves become targets of killings and indiscriminate attacks. Some community vigilantes of Kikyau village in Mangu Local Government were killed at their duty post by terrorists during the curfew hours. Similar incidents have been reported in other villages, including Kantoma and Bin-Per villages in Mangu Local Government Area.
The association warned that the continuous assaults could lead to a complete breakdown of law and order, painting a troubling picture of impunity and seeming complicity or helplessness of the State. When perpetrators of violence transact their stock in trade unabated and sometimes evade justice, it sends a dangerous message that human life is expendable in Nigeria.
The NBA recalled that some communities in Plateau State have been completely sacked over the decades, their lands forcefully grabbed, occupied, and even renamed by their invaders, while their survivors remain displaced aborigines. The association urged the government at all levels to make the protection of lives and property their priority.
While appreciating the efforts of the federal government for visiting Plateau and condoling with the people, the NBA emphasized the need for concrete actions to address the security challenges in the state. The association's statement concluded that the circle of bloodletting perpetrated by non-State actors paints a troubling picture of impunity.
The Nigerian Bar Association's condemnation of the attacks and warning of potential anarchy underscores the need for urgent action to address the security situation in Plateau State. The government has been called upon to take immediate steps to protect lives and property, restore public trust, and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Key points
- The Nigerian Bar Association condemns ongoing attacks on Plateau State citizens.
- The association warns of potential anarchy and breakdown of law and order.
- The government has been urged to prioritize the protection of lives and property.
