…Deploy massive security to affected areas
…Compensate victims, communities
FROM RAHILA ABDULLAHI, KADUNAÂ
Northern Elders’ Forum, NEF, yesterday added its voice to spiralling condemnations of the persistent and brutal killings in Plateau State, saying the situation has become a national disgrace and a stark reflection of the Federal Government’s failure to fulfil its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.
Besides, the NEF demanded massive security deployment to the area, as well as adequate compensation for victims and affected communities.
In a statement, the forum’s Spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, expressed deep outrage at the scale of violence inflicted on innocent citizens, warning that the Federal Government’s silence and inaction could no longer be tolerated.
The elders said that Plateau State, which was once known for its unity, peace, and cultural diversity, has now become a theatre of bloodshed and lawlessness.
Emphasing that “It is unacceptable that such acts of mass murder and destruction continue unabated, with little to no meaningful response from those charged with safeguarding the nation”.
Jiddere, therefore, called for the immediate and large-scale deployment of well-equipped security forces to Plateau State to halt the violence and restore law and order.
He added: “The silence and inaction of the Federal Government can no longer be tolerated. NEF demands the immediate and massive deployment of well-equipped security forces to Plateau State to halt these atrocities and restore order.
“The government must not only apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators but must do so swiftly and decisively. The blood of innocent Nigerians cries out for justice, and there must be no sanctuary for those who orchestrate or enable these horrors.
“We further demand that the Federal Government provide adequate compensation to victims and affected communities who have suffered unimaginable loss.
“An independent investigative panel must be established without delay, and its findings must be made public to ensure accountability and prevent further bloodshed.
“The Northern Elders Forum stands in full solidarity with the people of Plateau State and all affected regions. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in these senseless attacks. Enough is enough. The time for words has passed; this is a time for bold, decisive, and just action”.
Similarly, Arewa Youth Forum, an umbrella body of all of Youth Organisations and Civil Societies in Nigeria and Diaspora, has strongly condemned the devastating attacks in Plateau and Benue states that resulted in loss of lives and property destruction.
This was contained in a statement signed by the National President, Ahmed Mohammed Zagi, made available to our correspondent, yesterday.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.
“We also commend the resilience of the people of Plateau State in the face of these challenges”, it said.
Arewa Youth Forum, therefore, demanded investigations into the killings.
“We call for a thorough and transparent investigation to identify perpetrators and their sponsors”, it said.
The group further demanded protection of lives and property, through deployment of adequate security measures to prevent further attacks.
Furthermore, they asked for justice for victims, as well as prosecution of those responsible, to ensure justice and deter future attacks.
They urged citizens to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and reject violence.
The Arewa Youth Forum is committed to promoting peace, unity, and development in Nigeria, standing in solidarity with the people of Plateau and Benue states.
Other groups, such as the Arewa Consultative Forum, have also condemned the attacks, demanding compensation for victims’ families and relief for those injured.
