An Islamic body, Concerned Yoruba Muslim Scholars has condemned the murder of 32 unarmed Muslim travellers two Saturdays ago in Rukuba, Jos, Plateau State.

The Muslims were said to be travelling from Bauchi to Ikare in Ondo State after a religious programme.

Stated the chairman, Shaykh Abdul Rasheed Hadiyatullahi in a statement made available to the press, “We of the Concerned Yoruba Muslim Scholars hereby condemn this treacherous act. It is inhuman, insensitive and unpatriotic.

“This is not the first time that Muslim travellers will be killed in that area without any provocation. The locals seem uncontrollable, lawless and bloodthirsty. Human life means nothing to them and they lack respect for human dignity.”

He therefore appealed to “the authorities to deal decisively with the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” stating that “they will continue to kill innocent travellers unless they are taught a lesson which they will never forget.”

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The chairman further demanded open trial of all the 21 arrested suspects: “We demand open trial of the 21 suspects who have been arrested. Under no circumstances must they be granted bail because this is a case of multiple murder and capital offence. They must not be released on bail so as to serve as deterrent to others.”

Addressing the police and armed forces specifically, Shayk Hadiyatullahi said his members will be on the lookout to see if any of the suspects would be released.

The group called on all Muslims to remain calm, persevere in prayers and not allow themselves to be used to cause any sort of unrest.

The management and executive council of the Church Of Christ In Nations (COCIN), has equally condemned the Rukuba Road killing and attendant reprisals.

They declared that only divine intervention through healing and rebuilding can bring the growing spate of insecurity in the country to an end.

COCIN expressed regret that Nigeria and Nigerians have continued to grapple with security challenges in the country, stressing that it is a cause for concern for all.

know God’s comfort, help and strength in these trying moments.”

It called on the government and securities, especially the OPSH to arrest and prosecute all those terrorising the communities.