The Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has condemned the recent massacre in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, which left over 50 people dead.
Describing the incident as both “barbaric” and “senseless,” the group decried the persistent cycle of violence in Northern Nigeria.
In a statement released on Sunday from Kaduna, the association’s Chairman, Rev. Dr. Joseph John Hayab, conveyed deep condolences to Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, and the people of the state, lamenting the increasing normalization of deadly attacks across the region.
“We condemn in totality 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,” the statement read.
Northern CAN expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, extending thoughts and prayers to the grieving families and impacted communities in Bokkos.
It called for immediate intervention from security agencies to apprehend those responsible and ensure justice is served.
“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,” the group stated. “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 association further urged religious, traditional, and community leaders to become champions of peace and tolerance, warning against the normalization of violence.
“Nigeria must not degenerate into a nation where human lives are wasted without consequences. We must all rise and say, ‘Enough is enough,’” it declared.
Commending the Plateau State Government for its prompt reaction to the incident and the initial arrests reported, Northern CAN encouraged continued dedication to peacebuilding and justice.
It also advised the public to stay calm and law-abiding while cooperating with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activity.
“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.
