The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria has condemned the killings of residents in the Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, which resulted in at least 52 fatalities.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph Hayab, described the massacre as “barbaric,” “tragic,” and “utterly unacceptable.”
He extended condolences to the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and the residents of the state.
Hayab expressed concern over the recurring violence plaguing communities across Northern Nigeria, noting that the persistent culture of bloodshed continues to claim innocent lives.
The statement read, “We totally condemn this strange and evil culture of taking human lives. Hiding under religion, ethnicity, or any guise to unleash terror on communities is unacceptable. Our societal value for human life has dangerously eroded, and this must not be allowed to continue.
“We’re heartbroken by the latest carnage, our prayers are with the victims’ families and the affected communities in Bokkos.
“This bloodletting must stop. We urge security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous crime and ensure they face the full weight of the law. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. The pattern of mass killings and mass burials repeated in different communities year after year must be broken through firm and proactive measures.”
The Christian body also called on religious, traditional, and community leaders to preach peace, unity, and tolerance among their people.
“These wanton killings must not become the new normal. Nigeria must not degenerate into a nation where human lives are wasted without consequences. We must all rise and say, ‘Enough is enough,’” it stated.
While commending the Plateau State Government for its swift response and the reported arrests, the association urged the government to remain steadfast in its commitment to peace, justice, and security.
The body also appealed to citizens to remain calm, law-abiding, and to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace. We pray that God comforts the bereaved families and grants healing to the wounded and affected communities,” the statement concluded.
