Black Palm Sunday Killings: Nigeria at Moral Crossroads as 34 Christians Slain in Jos — NSCEA
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) has condemned the killing of 34 Christians in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, describing the incident as a national tragedy and a defining moment for Nigeria’s moral and security direction.
In a press release issued by its Elders’ Council and signed by Secretary Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, the council expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the attack, which occurred on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026.
It noted that the sacred Christian observance, symbolizing peace and humility, was marred by bloodshed, calling the killings an assault on faith, humanity, and the nation’s conscience.
The council sympathized with grieving families, the Plateau State community, and Nigerians at large, offering prayers for the victims and comfort for the bereaved.
NSCEA described the incident as part of a disturbing and consistent pattern of violence against Christians, particularly during major religious celebrations. It cited previous attacks, including the Christmas Day bombings of 2011, Easter 2012 attacks in Kaduna, the 2019 Gombe killings, and multiple Christmas and Easter-related attacks between 2023 and 2025.
According to the council, the recurring nature of these incidents suggests a coordinated campaign, rejecting the characterization of such violence as mere “herder-farmer clashes.” It argued that many of the attacks occur outside farming contexts and bear signs of organized terror.
The group further raised concerns over constitutional violations, stressing that the continued killings undermine provisions guaranteeing freedom of religion, state neutrality, and the government’s responsibility to ensure citizens’ security and welfare.
NSCEA also questioned national security policies, particularly the reintegration of repentant terrorists into society, warning that such measures, without accountability and justice, could erode public trust and compromise safety.
It criticized what it described as inflammatory rhetoric and troubling official narratives that appear to downplay the severity of violence, cautioning that such language could embolden perpetrators.
The council called on religious and traditional leaders to demonstrate moral clarity and leadership in condemning violence and promoting peaceful coexistence. It also urged the international community and human rights organizations to take note of the escalating insecurity and support peace-building efforts in Nigeria.
Describing the situation as a critical juncture in the nation’s history, NSCEA warned that continued violence threatens national unity and societal values.
The council urged the Federal Government to carry out a transparent investigation into the Jos killings, ensure swift prosecution of those responsible, and review existing security strategies. It also called for an end to narratives that obscure the reality of the attacks and for renewed commitment to constitutional governance and the protection of all citizens.
“Nigeria must not normalize tragedy,” the statement emphasized, urging decisive action to prevent further loss of lives.
