The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has described the killings in Plateau State as a sign of failure on the part of the Federal Government.
In a statement issued on Wednesday issued by Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, its spokesperson, NEF described the incessant killings in the State, as a “national disgrace.”
“What was once a symbol of unity, peace, and cultural diversity in Nigeria has now become a theatre of bloodshed and lawlessness.
“The magnitude of violence being inflicted on innocent citizens is nothing short of a national disgrace, and a damning indictment of the Federal Government’s failure to discharge its primary duty protecting lives and property.
“It is unacceptable that such acts of mass murder and destruction continue unabated, with little to no meaningful response from those charged with safeguarding the nation.
“The silence and inaction of the Federal Government can no longer be tolerated.
“NEF demands the immediate and massive deployment of well-equipped security forces to Plateau State to halt these atrocities and restore order,” the statement said.
The Northern Elders Forum said the government must not only apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators but must do so swiftly and decisively.
“The blood of innocent Nigerians cries out for justice, and there must be no sanctuary for those who orchestrate or enable these horrors,” the NEF said.
The Forum further called on the government to provide compensation to the victims and affected communities in Plateau State, while calling for the setting up of independent investigative panel to unravel the cause of the bloodshed, with a view to preventing further loss of lives and property.
“We further demand that the Federal Government provide adequate compensation to victims and affected communities who have suffered unimaginable loss.
“An independent judicial panel must be established without delay, and its findings must be made public to ensure accountability and prevent further bloodshed.
“The Northern Elders Forum stands in full solidarity with the people of Plateau State and all affected regions.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in these senseless attacks.
“Enough is enough. The time for words has passed—this is a time for bold, decisive, and just action,” NEF warned.
