Northern senators: Plateau killings a wake-up call for all Nigerians

The northern senators forum has condemned the recent killings in Bokkos LGA of Plateau state.

The forum expressed outrage over the violence, which claimed dozens of lives and left many others injured or missing.

In a statement signed by Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, its chairman, the forum said the attacks do not represent the values of the nation.

“On behalf of the Northern Senators Forum, we hereby condemn in the strongest possible terms the recent attacks on five communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State,” the statement reads.

“The death toll, which has risen to about 50, with many more injured and missing, doesn’t represent the values we stand for as a nation.

“This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the insecurity that has plagued some parts of our nation, and we cannot afford to let it become the new norm.”

The senators commiserated with the bereaved families, the government and people of Plateau state, and praised Caleb Mutfwang, the governor, for his leadership in the wake of the tragedy.

“We wish to commiserate with the families of the victims, the Plateau State Government, and the people of Plateau State over this tragic incident,” the statement added.

“We wish to also commend the Governor of Plateau State Caleb Mutfwang for his efforts to restore calm and prevent retaliation between various ethnic groups. His leadership is a beacon of hope in these trying times, and we urge him to continue on this path.”

The forum reiterated its commitment to partnering with the government and security agencies to improve national security.

“The Northern Senators Forum renews its commitment to working with the government and security agencies to develop a robust security framework that protects the lives and property of our citizens. We cannot afford to fail in this endeavour,” they said.

The lawmakers added that the incident should spur collective action to secure the country’s future.

“This recent attack is a wake-up call for all Nigerians. We must come together to build a safer, more secure future for ourselves and future generations,” the group said.

“We owe it to the victims of these senseless attacks to act decisively and ensure that such incidents do not recur.”

On Wednesday, several people were killed during attacks on the Ruwi, Hurti, and Tadai communities in Bokkos LGA, as well as the Manguna and Dafo villages in Plateau.

Over 50 people were reportedly killed, 1,000 displaced and more than 300 houses destroyed during the attack.