…as Northern CAN, AYCF seek end to senseless killings, compensation for victims families
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has condemned the renewed wave of killings in Plateau State, urging the Federal Government to declare a state of security emergency in vulnerable and banditry-ravaged communities across Northern Nigeria and beyond.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Muhammad Baba, the ACF expressed deep sorrow over the March 28th attacks on defenceless communities in Plateau, which led to the tragic loss of scores of lives, including children.
“The ACF is ineffably saddened at the disheartening and frightening attacks by terror gangs, which have added to the already grim toll of deaths, injuries, and destruction suffered by communities in recent years,” the statement read.
The forum extended condolences to the affected communities, the government and people of Plateau State, and prayed for the souls of the deceased and quick recovery for the injured.
The ACF also drew attention to what it described as a continued deterioration of security in Arewa and other parts of the country, stressing that every fresh attack is one too many.
Similarly, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and Abuja, along with the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), condemned the violence and called for immediate compensation for victims’ families and urgent steps to end what they described as senseless killings in the region.
“Clearly, the people are in great pains, with their situation compounded by existential economic challenges. The killing spree on the Plateau must be stopped immediately and peace must return to the State,” it said.
The Forum however called on the federal government to “declare a state of security emergency on vulnerable and banditry-prone communities and to initiate effective early-warning and early-response strategies that incorporate the participation of community members;
“To intensify efforts in actionable intelligence gathering, processing and deployment by relevant all security agencies so as to establish the immediate and remote causes of the latest skirmishes, investigate, identify, arrest and prosecute perpetrators and enablers of the attacks.”
It also called in the Federal Government to fully compensate families of the victims for the lives lost and extend relief to those injured.
“FGN and Plateau State Government to empower community leaders, elders, clergy, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to embark on community dialogue for conflict resolution, reconciliation and cooperation. All must intensify conflict resolution efforts;
“citizens should avail the security agencies with credible information on the activities of insurgents and criminals; and
“Members of the National Assembly to do more to hold the FGN and the National Security Agencies to account and to demand concrete evidence of a firm resolve to exterminate the current terror on citizens,” ACF asked.
While, reiterating its unalloyed support for the Federal, the Plateau State Government and all National Security Agencies in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria, ACF called on all to up the ante in the fight against threats to the wellbeing of all Nigerian citizens.
In its own statement signed by its Chairman, Rev John John Hayab, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19-Northern states and the FCT expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, and the entire people of the State over the tragic and ‘senseless’ killings of innocent citizens in Bokkos Local Government Area.
Rev. Hayab said “We are deeply pained by the latest wave of violence that has claimed the lives of over 50 persons across communities such as Mangor, Tamiso, Daffo, Manguna, Hurti, and Tadai. This pattern of carnage, sadly becoming a recurring decimal in Plateau and other parts of Northern Nigeria, is not only barbaric but also an indictment on our collective humanity.
“Northern CAN condemns, in the strongest possible terms, this strange and evil culture of killing that is fast gaining roots in our society. It is heartbreaking that people now hide under the cover of religion or tribal sentiments to commit atrocities against fellow human beings. The value for human life in our society has dangerously diminished and that is completely unacceptable,” he said.
The Northern CAN Chairman however called on the security agencies to act swiftly, professionally and without bias and apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous crimes, adding that, justice must not only be served but must be seen to be served by all.
Hayab added that, the continued cycle of bloodshed and mass burials must be broken through decisive action, improved intelligence, and proactive security presence in vulnerable communities.
“We equally call on all Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political leaning to unite against this madness. This is not just a Plateau problem; it is a national tragedy. Religious leaders, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders must reinforce the message of peace, coexistence, and collective responsibility.
“Once again, we say: Enough is Enough. Nigeria must not be a land where blood flows more than water,” he said.
In a related development, Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) condemned the recent brutal killings of innocent citizens, describing it an act of senseless violence that has left numerous lives lost and entire communities devastated.
AYCF President-General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima said, the tragic incident is not only a profound violation of human rights but also a stark reminder of the escalating insecurity in various parts of Nigeria.
According to AYCF President-General, the perpetrators of the heinous acts must be brought to justice, just as it is imperative that the government takes immediate and decisive action to prevent further bloodshed.
“We at AYCF express our deepest sympathy to the families of the victims and the affected communities who have suffered irreparable losses. The pain and trauma caused by such violence cannot be understated, and it is a reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms.
“Furthermore, in the wake of this tragedy, we call for adequate compensation to be provided to the victims’ families. The loss of life, property, and livelihood cannot be compensated fully, but financial support is essential for the survivors to rebuild their lives,” he said.
AYCF however called on the government to establish a dedicated funding to support the victims, including medical aid, psychological support, and financial compensation for the families who have lost loved ones.
It argued, “This is not just a call for justice; it is a call for compassion, accountability, and a collective commitment to ensuring that such atrocities do not continue to plague our nation.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Plateau State and all victims of violence, and we demand action that prioritizes the safety and dignity of every Nigerian citizen. AYCF commiserated with the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, and the entire people of the state over what it described as yet another senseless bloodshed,” AYCF said.
