Plateau Killings: CAN Pooh-poohs FG Reaction, Says Govt Must Move Beyond Words And Take Action

...Says Nigerians are tired of mourning

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has criticised the Federal Government over its poor response to killings of Nigerians in Plateau State. CAN asked the government to move beyond words and take firm steps after the recent deadly attack in Plateau State, noting that those responsible for the dastardly acts must be caught and punished.

The President of CAN, Daniel Okoh, who reacted said the incident goes beyond being “not just tragic” but clearly “unacceptable.”

Okoh spoke in a statement late Monday, stressing, “Nigerians are tired of mourning. Nigerians are tired of statements. Nigerians want to see action.

“Those responsible for this atrocity must be found, arrested, and made to face justice; swiftly and decisively. Anything less will only deepen the sense that life in our country is no longer protected...

“Our security institutions must not only respond; they must stay ahead of these threats."

According to CAN, "These "Strikes at the very heart of public trust and must be thoroughly investigated.”

CAN further said that although it recognised efforts by the Plateau State government to combat the senseless killings, “temporary measures are not enough. The people of Plateau, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve lasting security, not periodic reassurance.” 

The CAN leader then called on citizens to stay calm but alert, reminding the country of its duty to victims and survivors. 

“We owe the dead justice. We owe the living protection. And we owe our future a country where no community wakes up to gunfire on a sacred day,” he added.

Violence occured on Sunday in Angwan Rukuba, an area of Jos North Local Government, where 28 people lost their lives and many others injured. The incident has led to widespread anger, with residents staging protests. 

Meanwhile, reacting to the incident, the state Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, confirmed the number of casualties, saying, “This unfortunate event led to the loss of 28 innocent lives and left many others injured. I feel deeply the weight of the pain inflicted on our people,” assuring residents that the state would not give in to fear.

According to Mutfwang "Plateau will not “succumb to fear or intimidation. We shall emerge stronger, united, and resolute in our faith and commitment to peace. 

“We must deploy every available resource to defend our people, protect lives and property, and safeguard the territorial integrity of our state. Plateau shall remain strong and peaceful.”

The governor later visited the affected community and those receiving treatment in hospitals, even as he furthermore, imposed 48 hours curfew on the area.