Gunmen raided and ransacked a group of villages there, local sources said, in one of worst attacks this year blamed on heavily armed criminal gangs.
Condemning what he called the “heinous” killings, Buhari promised that the perpetrators would receive “no mercy”. (Photo by AFP)
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned recent resurgence of killings in Mangu and Riyom Local Councils of Plateau State.
While commending efforts of security agencies in maintaining peace, CAN called on government to fish out perpetrators of the acts and ensure they are brought to justice.
In a statement in Abuja, yesterday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, lamented that the killings, which started in Mangu villages on Monday, May 15, 2023, by so-called unknown gunmen, have claimed many lives and properties, while many persons remain missing.
He noted: “The villages affected include Fungzai, Hale, Kubwat, Bwoi and many other communities of the Kombun District of Mangu Council and some communities in Riyom Council. According to reports, about 130 people were killed, about 1,000 buildings were burnt, and about 22 villages were affected.”
The statement reads: “We condemn these barbaric acts in the strongest terms possible. It is disheartening to see innocent citizens being killed and their properties destroyed in such a gruesome manner.
“As a religious leader, I implore all parties involved to embrace peace and dialogue, as a means of resolving their differences. Violence only begets more violence and we must break this cycle, if we are to build a peaceful and prosperous society.
“It is important to emphasise that CAN, unequivocally, opposes any form of violence or reprisal, as we strive to advance the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.”
Okoh appealed to all Nigerians in Mangu and Riyom “and indeed, all over the country, to remain calm and law-abiding in the face of these challenges.”
He added: “We must not allow ourselves to be provoked into taking actions that will further escalate the situation. Let us all work together towards building a peaceful and prosperous society where all citizens can live in dignity and security.”
