The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has condemned the latest wave of killings in Plateau State, warning Nigerians against becoming accustomed to the loss of innocent lives.
The association said the latest attacks, which reportedly left at least nine people dead in different communities, demonstrated the urgent need for security agencies and governments to strengthen intelligence gathering and take preventive action against threats before they escalate.
The NCA Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, made the position known in a statement issued to journalists in Kaduna on Tuesday.
Hayab expressed concern over the recurring violence in Plateau State, saying the attacks had continued to inflict severe consequences on families, communities and livelihoods.
According to him, every life lost represents a serious human tragedy that should receive the attention of government and citizens regardless of ethnic, religious or political differences.
The latest incidents reportedly occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning in parts of Barkin Ladi, Riyom and neighbouring communities.
Hayab said five people travelling towards Gana-Ropp in Barkin Ladi were reportedly killed after their vehicle came under attack.
He added that a pastor and another individual were also killed while travelling to church at Dorowa Babuje.
Separate attacks were reportedly recorded in Baten Wereng and Ratyidi, further raising concerns about the security situation in vulnerable Plateau communities.
Reacting to the recurring incidents, Hayab questioned whether Nigerians were becoming desensitised to the loss of lives.
“Nigerians must not get used to killings. Every life matters,” he said, stressing that repeated reports of people being killed should not become accepted as part of everyday life.
The NCA chairman urged the authorities to review the security situation in vulnerable communities and strengthen efforts to identify threats before attacks occur.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government, Plateau State Government and security personnel, Hayab said increased deployment of security operatives alone could provide only temporary reassurance.
He called for a security system that prioritises early warning, credible intelligence and rapid preventive action.
According to him, the objective should be to identify emerging threats and stop attackers from reaching vulnerable communities rather than relying primarily on responses after violence has already occurred.
Hayab also called for stronger cooperation between security agencies and residents, describing local communities as important partners in efforts to prevent attacks.
He noted that residents are often the first to notice suspicious movements or unusual activities that could provide early indications of an impending attack.
He therefore urged the authorities to establish reliable channels through which residents can provide information and ensure that credible intelligence receives prompt attention.
The Northern Christian Association further called on security agencies to conduct thorough investigations into the latest attacks and ensure that anyone found responsible is arrested and prosecuted according to the law.
The association extended its condolences to the families of those killed, the affected communities and the Plateau State Government.
It also called for support for residents whose livelihoods and daily lives have been disrupted by the recurring violence.
Hayab maintained that the effectiveness of security should not be measured only by how authorities respond after an attack.
He said protecting citizens also requires the ability to anticipate threats, prevent violence and safeguard communities before lives are lost.
