Amidst the distressing backdrop of persistent violence, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) took a decisive stand against the ongoing killings in Plateau State and other regions with a compelling rally named the ‘Plateau Peace Walk.’ Spearheaded by the esteemed CAN chairman in the state, Rev Polycarp Lubo, the demonstration garnered the support of influential Christian leaders, including Rev Dr Stephen Panya of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Rev Dr Amos Mohzo of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), and Bishop of Methodist Church, Jos, Rev Nkechi Nwosu, among other distinguished figures.
The procession, aimed at expressing profound displeasure, made its way to the Government House in Rayfield, Jos, where Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang received the concerned crowd. The urgency of their message stems from the recent spate of violence that saw over 200 lives lost during Christmas Eve attacks in the Bokkos and Barkin Ladi local government areas. The aftermath included the destruction of numerous homes and farmlands, leaving scores injured.
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These coordinated attacks provoked local and international outrage, prompting Governor Mutfwang to criticize the military for a perceived delayed response and categorize the incidents as a brutal carnage. Over 50 villages were reportedly affected, prompting the United Nations to call for a thorough probe by the Federal Government.
Despite the visit of Vice President Kashim Shettima and assurances from the Federal Government to quell the menace, the residents are calling for more than promises; they seek decisive actions and robust protection from their aggressors. The region, encompassing North-West and central Nigeria, has long grappled with bandit militias, exacerbating social tensions and violence arising from competition for natural resources between nomadic herders and farmers.
In the face of these challenges, there have been renewed calls for citizens to bear arms, though Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja insists on the Nigerian Army’s capability to defend the country, cautioning that self-defense could lead to anarchy. The ‘Plateau Peace Walk’ signifies a collective plea for peace, security, and resolute action to end the cycle of violence plaguing the region.
