NSCEA condemns renewed killings and attacks in Plateau State, Nigeria
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) has strongly condemned the renewed wave of violent attacks and killings across communities in Plateau State, describing the incidents as “senseless, barbaric, and a gross violation of human rights.”
In a statement signed by Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, Secretary General of the NSCEA Elders’ Council, the organization expressed deep concern over the continuous loss of lives and displacement of innocent residents in the state.
According to the Council, the most recent attacks have claimed more than 50 lives and displaced nearly 2,000 people in different communities across the region. NSCEA described the killings as a grave threat to national stability and a tragic reminder of Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges.
Wave of Deadly Attacks
The Council highlighted several recent violent incidents, including:
October 21, 2025: Gunmen suspected to be armed Fulani herders attacked Daron village in Gyel District, Jos South LGA, killing two people and injuring one.
October 9, 2025: Two people were killed along the Barkin Ladi–Dorowa Babuje road.
July 13, 2025: Three people were killed in Riyom LGA after gunmen opened fire on residents before fleeing into nearby hills.
April 13, 2025: At least 40 people were killed in Zike, a predominantly Christian farming community.
April 8, 2025: Armed assailants attacked six villages in Bokkos district, killing over 50 people and displacing almost 2,000 residents.
NSCEA noted that these attacks are part of a continuing pattern of violence in Plateau State, often attributed to long-standing conflicts between farmers and herders, banditry, and inter-communal clashes. Hundreds have been killed and thousands displaced in recent years, leaving many communities in constant fear.
Call for Government Action
The NSCEA urged both federal and state governments to take decisive measures to end the bloodshed. Specifically, the Council called for:
Deployment of adequate security personnel to protect lives and property across Plateau communities.
Immediate investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the attacks.
Addressing root causes such as poverty, unemployment, and competition for land and resources.
Promotion of peace and reconciliation among the diverse ethnic and religious groups in Plateau State.
“The time has come for the government to act decisively to prevent further loss of life and restore peace in Plateau State,” the statement read.
Commitment to Peace
Bishop Adesanya-Davies reaffirmed NSCEA’s commitment to peacebuilding, unity, and national stability, urging all Nigerians to remain prayerful and actively involved in peace efforts.
“We call on all Nigerians to join us in praying and working for peace and unity in our great nation,” she stated.
