The Forum of Northern Christians, also known as the Northern Christian Association, has condemned ongoing violent attacks in Northern Nigeria, saying they have overshadowed Easter celebrations. The group cited deadly assaults in Jos, Plateau State, and parts of Kaduna State on Palm Sunday, which left several dead and many injured. In a statement released Friday, its Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, said communities are observing Easter in grief and fear rather than joy and reflection. They noted that attacks in Jos North Local Government Area and nearby communities displaced residents amid Easter preparations.
The leaders pointed out that violence is not isolated, with Benue, Borno, Niger, and Taraba also experiencing killings and abductions. "The painful reality is that these incidents are not limited to one state," the statement read. They questioned the effectiveness of security measures, especially during Christian holy periods, and warned that repeated attacks could erode public trust in government protection. The Forum urged the Federal Government and security agencies to move beyond condemnation and take sustained action to stop the violence and bring perpetrators to justice. Religious, traditional, and community leaders were also called upon to promote peace and unity. Despite the challenges, the group said Easter symbolises hope and resilience, encouraging Christians to remain steadfast. It reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for a peaceful North where people of all faiths can live without fear.
Rev. Joseph Hayab and Bishop Mohammed Naga are speaking from a reality many Northern Christians live every day — one where holy days come with body counts. The fact that attacks in Jos, Kaduna, Borno and Taraba follow similar patterns during religious seasons suggests security agencies are neither learning nor adapting. If condemnation were enough, the bloodshed would have stopped years ago. Nigerians in these regions are not just praying for peace; they are effectively being asked to accept insecurity as routine.
