The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) have strongly condemned the recent killings in Anguwan Rukuba, Jos, Plateau State, describing the attack as senseless, barbaric, and unacceptable.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Gunmen reportedly stormed the community at about 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, leaving at least 27 people dead and several others injured in what has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over security in the region.
In separate statements issued on Wednesday in Kaduna, both organisations called on security agencies to urgently track down the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice without delay.
Chairman of NOSCEF, Sunday Oibe, expressed deep sorrow and anger over what he described as the “brutal killing of innocent citizens,” noting that the attack’s occurrence on Palm Sunday further underscored its cruelty and insensitivity.
According to Oibe, the incident represents not only a grave assault on human life but also a direct threat to the long-standing values of peaceful coexistence and religious harmony in Jos and across Plateau State.
“NOSCEF strongly condemns this act of violence against innocent and defenceless citizens. Such bloodshed is unacceptable and must not continue,” he stated.
Oibe further described the recurring violence in Plateau as deeply troubling, calling for urgent, decisive, and sustained intervention by relevant authorities. He warned that failure to apprehend those responsible could embolden criminal elements and worsen the security situation.
He urged governments at all levels, alongside community leaders and stakeholders, to collaborate in identifying and dismantling networks behind the attacks.
“All hands must be on deck to identify and dismantle the networks responsible for these killings,” he added.
The NOSCEF chairman also appealed to residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while extending condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured.
Similarly, National Secretary of PFN, David Bakare, expressed grave concern over the incident, describing it as a tragic reminder of the fragile peace in the region.
“This act of violence is a tragedy for the families affected and a reminder of the fragile peace that must be protected,” Bakare said.
He warned against a relapse into an era characterised by fear, division, and instability, stressing that the sanctity of human life must remain paramount.
Bakare also raised concerns over the ability of the attackers to strike within a major city, noting that it highlights significant security lapses and underscores the need for a more coordinated and proactive response.
The PFN scribe urged security agencies to act decisively in apprehending the assailants and ensuring justice is served, while calling on residents and community leaders to cooperate fully with authorities and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, reiterating that such acts of violence have no place in a civilised society.