Following last week’s killing of unarmed civilians in communities in Plateau State, church denominational leaders and spiritual fathers have described the acts as barbaric, devilish, and an act of genocide. They are appealing to the government to put a stop to the killings and bring an end to the increasing violence and conflict in not just Plateau State, but other parts of the country that are experiencing similar challenges.
The police confirmed the arrest of seven suspects in connection with the incident, but little has been heard since then. The Church leaders, led by Rev. Stephen Baba Panya, ECWA President, expressed concern over the recurring killing of unarmed civilians who are mainly Christians in Mangu and Riyom Local Government Areas of the State.
The church leaders released a statement that said: “We are very deeply saddened by the resurgence of mindless killings of innocent citizens, mainly Christians, in Mangu and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State. The killings which started in Mangu villages, Plateau State, Nigeria on Monday, 15th May 2023, by so-called unknown gunmen, have claimed many lives and properties, with many persons still missing.”
The statement further noted that about 130 people were said to have been killed, around 1000 homes and 22 churches burnt, and over 22 villages affected. “We the Church Denominational Leaders and Spiritual fathers on the Plateau view this round of killings and destruction as devilish, barbaric, and an act of genocide against innocent and armless villagers,” the statement said.
The persistent attacks and killings in Plateau state are raising many questions, the statement said. “Who really wants to destroy Plateau State and why? Are the killers really ‘unknown’ gunmen and why do they always have sophisticated weapons and enough time to wreak havoc on innocent citizens? What has happened to those arrested in previous attacks? Are the security agencies in Plateau really handicapped? If we must move forward as a peaceful, united, and democratic nation, then these and many other questions must be answered through deliberate action by government to bring these killings to the end and restore peace and tranquillity in Plateau State and other troubled parts of the country,” the Church leaders maintained.
They called on the government and security agencies to immediately stop the ongoing massacre and provide urgent shelter and relief materials to the affected communities. They also implored individuals, groups, and organizations to come to the aid of the affected communities. Finally, the church leaders stressed the need for Nigeria to hold onto God’s promises and fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.
