Plateau killings have left a trail of death and destruction in their wake. The attacks on Anguwan Rukuba community in Jos North local government area of Plateau State have been described as barbaric and senseless by the Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI).
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers, who rode on motorcycles, invaded the community around 7:30 pm on Sunday, while people were going about their normal businesses, and started shooting indiscriminately. The Plateau state police command has confirmed that 14 persons, including two women, were killed in the incident. However, the National President of Berom Youth Moulder Association (BYM), Barrister Solomon Dalyop, claimed that 27 persons were killed.
The JNI has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the tragic incident, strongly condemning the attack. In a statement signed by its secretary, Dr. Salim Musa Umar, the organization described the attack as a grave threat to peace and coexistence in Plateau State. The statement also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased.
The JNI has appealed to residents across the state to remain calm and law-abiding, warning against any form of retaliation that could further inflame tensions. The organization has also called on security agencies to launch a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the incident, with a view to identifying and prosecuting those responsible.
The Plateau State government and security agencies must take concrete steps to address the root causes of the violence in the state. The fact that 14 people, including two women, were killed in the attack, and the conflicting casualty figures from different sources, raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the security response. The government's commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and unity in Plateau State must be matched with tangible actions to prevent future occurrences. The people of Plateau State deserve a secure and stable environment to live their lives without fear of violence. The government must take responsibility for ensuring that justice is served and that those responsible for the attack are brought to book.
