The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern region has vehemently condemned the recent wave of killings in Plateau State, describing the incidents as tragic and unacceptable. With mounting casualties, displaced persons, and widespread fear among residents, Northern CAN is calling on the government and security agencies to rise above rhetoric and implement concrete strategies to restore peace and protect innocent lives.

The Plateau Tragedy: A Nation Bleeds Again

In recent weeks, communities in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas of Plateau State have come under brutal attacks by armed assailants. According to reports from The Punch and Daily Trust, more than 52 people have been killed, and over 1,800 individuals displaced, with three makeshift camps now serving as temporary shelters for victims. Homes were burned, properties looted, and countless families torn apart.

Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the Vice Chairman of Northern CAN, lamented the frequency of these attacks and the government’s slow response in curbing the violence. In his statement, he emphasized, “We cannot continue to bury our people in mass graves while those responsible roam free. Enough is enough.”

Ethno-Religious and Political Dimensions

While the root causes of these attacks are multifaceted—ranging from land disputes and ethnic tensions to religious divides and political manipulation—what is clear is the human cost. For years, Plateau State has been a flashpoint for violence, but the recurrence of such deadly incidents points to a deeper failure in conflict resolution and governance.

Northern CAN is urging both federal and state governments to prioritize long-term peacebuilding initiatives, including:

• Deployment of well-equipped and neutral security forces to hotspots.

• Transparent investigations to hold perpetrators accountable.

• Community dialogue and reconciliation programs aimed at healing and rebuilding trust.

• Economic empowerment of affected areas to reduce poverty-induced violence.

The Need for Government Accountability

The group also criticized the inconsistency and inadequacy of government responses. Despite President Tinubu’s assurances of national security reform, attacks continue to rise in frequency and brutality in several parts of northern Nigeria.

Northern CAN insists that security architecture in the region needs urgent restructuring. “Security shouldn’t just be about militarizing spaces,” Rev. Hayab noted, “it must be about intelligence gathering, early warning systems, and proactive measures.”

A Wake-Up Call to Nigerians

This crisis is not just a northern problem; it’s a national concern. The Nigerian populace must be united in condemning violence and pressuring leaders to act. Religious and community leaders must also rise to speak peace and preach unity.

Moreover, the media must continue to shed light on these events without sensationalism but with a commitment to truth, justice, and advocacy.

A Path Forward

To break this cycle of violence, Nigeria must:

• Reform security systems and increase local intelligence collaboration.

• Address root causes of conflict, especially those tied to resource competition and ethnic marginalization.

• Strengthen legal frameworks to ensure justice and restitution for victims.

• Invest in education and youth development in volatile regions.

Conclusion

The condemnations from Northern CAN echo the pain and frustration of countless Nigerians who are tired of unending bloodshed. The time for mourning has lasted too long—now is the time for bold action, political will, and national healing.

As we await justice for the lives lost and safety for those still living in fear, Nigeria must ask itself: How many more must die before we say, never again?

📍 This article is published by Xamblog.com – your source for reliable news, social impact reporting, and national commentary.

Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by kingstar