By Christian faithful in Plateau State took to the streets in a peaceful protest on Easter Monday, condemning the latest wave of deadly attacks in Bokkos, Riyom, and Bassa LGAs.
The march, organised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Denominational Leaders’ Forum, began at Favwei Junction and concluded at the Government House in Little Rayfield, where Governor Caleb Mutfwang and his deputy received the protesters.
Reading a joint statement addressed to President Bola Tinubu, COCIN President Rev. Amos Mohzo, CAN Chairman Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, and Rev. Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam decried what they described as “unprovoked, horrific, and persistent attacks” that have left over 100 people dead in recent weeks.
“These are not communal clashes but calculated, premeditated acts of terror,” they said, blaming suspected armed Fulani herdsmen for targeting innocent Christians in night raids.
The church leaders demanded:
Strengthened security infrastructure
Community policing and thorough investigations
Humanitarian aid and rebuilding of destroyed villages
Protection for religious leaders and critical infrastructure
Stronger action against terrorism and its financing
They also rejected official statements describing the killings as retaliatory clashes. “We reject the narrative… these are acts of terror, and the truth must not be sacrificed on the altar of political convenience,” the statement read.
Governor Mutfwang assured the protesters that justice would be pursued, stating, “Plateau shall be free, Plateau shall prosper.” He also vowed that those arrested would not go unpunished, and revealed ongoing talks with President Tinubu and security agencies to ensure better protection for vulnerable communities.
“This is not just a Plateau problem. It is a Nigerian problem,” the church leaders warned. “We walk today not just for the victims, but for the soul of Nigeria.
