The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has condemned the renewed killings in Plateau State, urging the Federal and state governments to take urgent action to halt the bloodshed and protect vulnerable communities.

The intervention followed fresh attacks in Jos South, Mangu and Riyom local government areas in which at least 13 people were killed and several others injured.

Nine passengers travelling to Jos were killed when gunmen opened fire on their vehicle at Dungus in Jos South, while two people were killed at Vodni in Pushit District, Mangu, and another two at Tahoos in Riyom. Four people were also reported injured in the Mangu attack.

Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Yakubu Pam, in a statement yesterday, expressed “deep sadness and grave concern” over the recurring violence and loss of lives in affected communities.

“We strongly condemn the violence and call for an immediate end to this senseless bloodshed and destruction,” the Christian body said.

Northern CAN urged President Bola Tinubu and the Plateau State Government to take “firm and immediate steps” to end the violence, protect residents and restore lasting peace and security.

It said the repeated attacks and destruction of property underscored the need for a broader reassessment of the country’s security arrangements.

“The persistent destruction of lives and property points to the urgent need for a comprehensive review and strengthening of the nation’s security architecture,” it said.

According to the association, Nigerians should be able to live and pursue their livelihoods without fear of attacks.

“Nigerians deserve to live, work, worship, and raise their families without fear of being attacked in their communities,” it said.

The Plateau State Government had condemned the latest attacks, describing them as deeply disturbing and urging residents to resist reprisals that could escalate the violence.

The government said it was working with security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders through intelligence sharing, dialogue and community engagement to strengthen security in the state.

Northern CAN extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and expressed solidarity with residents whose homes, livelihoods and communities had been affected.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the families who have lost loved ones and to all those whose homes, livelihoods, and communities have been affected by the violence.”

It urged the Federal Government to make the restoration of peace in troubled communities a priority, stressing that “the safety and protection of citizens must remain at the centre of governance and national attention.”

The association also appealed to Plateau residents to remain united and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.

“We equally call on the good people of Plateau State to remain united, reject actions capable of further escalating tensions, and work together in the pursuit of peace, justice, and the protection of their communities,” it said.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace and reconciliation, Northern CAN urged the authorities to act before more lives were lost.

“Northern CAN remains committed to peace, justice, reconciliation, and the protection of innocent lives. We urge all relevant authorities to act swiftly and decisively before more lives are lost,” Pam said. (The Sun)