‘Hold those responsible to account’ — UN chief asks FG to probe Plateau killings

Volker Türk, United Nations high commissioner for human rights, has called on the federal government to probe the recent killing of over 150 people in Plateau communities on Christmas eve.

In a statement on Thursday, Türk expressed concerns over the spate of attacks by gunmen in the state.

He said the Nigerian government must work assiduously to break “the cycle of impunity fueling recurrent violence”.

“I am deeply alarmed by the series of attacks by gunmen on multiple rural communities in Plateau State, north-central Nigeria, on Christmas Eve, that left at least 150 people dead and many injured,” Türk said.

“I call on the Nigerian authorities to investigate this incident promptly, thoroughly and independently, consistent with international human rights law, and to hold those responsible to account in fair trials.

“The cycle of impunity fueling recurrent violence must be urgently broken.

“The Government should also take meaningful steps to address the underlying root causes and to ensure non-recurrence of this devastating violence.”

DEATH AT CHRISTMAS

On December 24, gunmen killed many residents and left others injured and displaced in fresh attacks on some communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi LGAs of Plateau.

The gunmen launched the attacks on residents of the two LGAs, including Mangu, at about 10 pm on Sunday, while residents were preparing for the Christmas celebration.

According to Caleb Mutfwang, governor of Plateau, over 115 persons were confirmed dead as of Tuesday.

‘FRESH ATTACK LOOMING’

On Thursday, Stanley Kavwam, deputy national publicity secretary of the Middle Belt Forum, said insurgents have sent a letter of an imminent attack to a community in Plateau state.

He added that it is worrisome that the military is aware of the identity of the attackers and their hideouts.

On Wednesday, Kashim Shettima, the vice-president, visited Plateau to condole with the victims.

Shettima said President Bola Tinubu would ensure that the affected communities “get justice and residents are safe”.