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Muslims, Christians rose in condemnation of Christmas eve massacres

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By Raymond Gukas, Jos

The condemnation of December 2023 Christmas eve massacres in three local government areas of Plateau State by suspected Fulani terrorists has continued to attract calls for stiff penalties for the perpetrators by the Christian and Muslim communities in the state.

The two religious bodies came out at different forums to express deep sympathy with the families of those affected by the carnage which left about 200 persons; women and children dead with several others in critical conditions in hospitals across the state.

While the muslim community led by the Chairman of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Plateau State, and Emir of Wase, HRH Mohammed Sambo Haruna, emphasised the need for a drastic measure to end the recurring attacks on communities in the state, the christmas community on its part is demanding a total halt to this attacks.

Addressing the Governor on Monday when he led a delegation, Alhaji Haruna lamented the lack of arrests, prosecutions, or convictions related to the past acts of violence. He underscored the importance of holding perpetrators accountable to break the cycle of violence affecting the state.

As part of what should be considered by government, he said, a tax regime should be introduced by the leaders in the communities as that will give an idea of the people that resides in such community and strangers wouldas well be identified and proper monitor be enforced.

Also, the representatives of the Dariqa Muslim Council, Umar Shehu and Khalifa Abdullahi Shehu commended Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and highlighted infrastructure improvements in Muslim communities as evidence of inclusive leadership.

Governor Mutfwang welcomed the delegation to the Government House, affirming his administration’s commitment to inclusivity. He refuted claims of bias against Muslims, assuring them of his genuine goodwill. Mutfwang pledged justice for all and announced plans to sponsor seats for Muslims to go to Mecca within the available resources.

Meanwhile, the Christian community declared a dress code of black atire when it called our it’s teeming worshippers on a peaceful walk as a sign of protesting the unprovoked attacks in the villages. .

Led by Rev. Dr. Stephen Baba Panya, President of Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), and in collaboration with Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the community presented their “10-point demand for peace” to Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

Rev. Panya expressed gratitude for proactive measures taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang while emphasizing the need for more concerted efforts to address persistent attacks on Christians in Plateau State.

Highlighting the 22 years of unchecked violence resulting in thousands of deaths without proper prosecution, Rev. Panya called for urgent intervention, including the provision of emergency relief to the victims.

He acknowledged President Tinubu’s directive to relevant federal agencies for assistance and commended Governor Mutfwang’s efforts in condemning the attacks and providing aid to displaced survivors. He unequivocally demanded an end to the ongoing attacks and killings, seeking immediate justice for the affected communities.

Rev. Panya urged the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to officially designate the armed terrorist militias behind the killings as terrorists. He called for enhanced security measures for the 15,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Bokkos and the reconstruction of destroyed communities.

Governor Mutfwang, while receiving the Christian community’s position, expressed gratitude for the support and assured prompt delivery of the petition to President Tinubu. He acknowledged Tinubu’s commitment to ending the cycle of violence and emphasized the determination to secure the land, promising that the bloodshed would not be in vain.

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