The Northern Christian Association has strongly condemned the recent killings in Plateau State, warning that Nigerians must not become desensitized to violence. The association's chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, expressed concern over the recurring violence in the state and its devastating impact on families and communities. He emphasized that every life lost represents a human tragedy that should command the attention of the government and Nigerians.
According to Rev. Hayab, the recent attacks occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning across parts of Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and neighbouring communities. The attacks reportedly claimed at least nine lives, including a pastor travelling to church. Five people were killed when their vehicle came under attack while travelling towards Gana-Ropp in Barkin Ladi. A pastor and another person were also killed on their way to church at Dorowa Babuje.
Rev. Hayab urged Nigerians not to get used to killings, stressing that every life matters. He emphasized that the frequency of attacks should not diminish Nigerians' sense of compassion, as every victim leaves behind relatives, friends, and communities that continue to bear the consequences of the violence. The association commended the Federal and Plateau State governments, as well as security personnel, for their efforts to address the security situation.
However, Rev. Hayab urged the authorities to urgently review the security situation in vulnerable communities and strengthen measures to identify and neutralize threats before they result in attacks. He suggested that increased deployment of security personnel could provide temporary reassurance but argued that a long-term solution requires a security system capable of detecting threats early and preventing attackers from reaching vulnerable communities.
The Northern Christian Association chairman also called for closer collaboration between security agencies and local residents, describing communities as critical partners in the fight against insecurity. He emphasized that residents are often the first to notice unusual movements, suspicious activities, and emerging threats in their communities, and that this information could help security agencies prevent attacks if reliable channels are created for reporting intelligence.
The association further urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the attacks and ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. The NCA condoled with the families of the victims, affected communities, and the Plateau State Government, while calling for support for residents whose lives and livelihoods have been disrupted by the violence.
Rev. Hayab emphasized that the recurring attacks should remind authorities that the protection of citizens should not be measured only by the response after an incident but also by the ability of security agencies to anticipate threats, prevent attacks, and protect vulnerable communities. The association's statement highlights the need for a proactive approach to addressing insecurity in Plateau State and the country at large.
Key points
- The Northern Christian Association has condemned the recent killings in Plateau State, warning that Nigerians must not become desensitized to violence.
- The association's chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, urged the authorities to urgently review the security situation in vulnerable communities and strengthen measures to identify and neutralize threats.
- The NCA called for closer collaboration between security agencies and local residents to prevent attacks and ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
