Dare Babalola
The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Afam Osigwe, has condemned the recent wave of violence in Jos, Plateau State, describing the killings of innocent residents on Palm Sunday as horrific and unacceptable.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Osigwe expressed deep concern over reports of gunmen attacking communities, leaving multiple casualties and injuries, noting that the incident underscores the worsening insecurity facing ordinary Nigerians.
The NBA president lamented that the attacks occurred on a day of profound religious significance for Christians, turning what should have been a moment of worship, reflection, and hope into one of grief and devastation.
He said families who had gone out peacefully for religious observance were instead plunged into mourning, while entire communities were left traumatised.
According to him, the recurring nature of such violence highlights a disturbing pattern that must be urgently addressed.
“A day meant for prayer, reflection, and hope was instead turned into a day of fear, bloodshed, and mourning,” the statement read.
Osigwe warned that the persistent failure to bring perpetrators to justice is fostering a culture of impunity, where the sanctity of human life is increasingly undermined.
He noted that when attackers repeatedly evade accountability, it weakens public confidence in the ability of the government to fulfill its primary responsibility of protecting lives and property.
The situation, he said, raises serious constitutional concerns, particularly regarding the right to life as enshrined in the nation’s laws.
The NBA called on security agencies to act swiftly by identifying, arresting, and prosecuting those responsible for the killings, while urging both federal and state authorities to reinforce security in vulnerable areas.
The association stressed the need for improved intelligence gathering, proactive response strategies, and concrete preventive measures to forestall further attacks.
It also emphasised that beyond official statements, victims and their families deserve justice, support, and reassurance.
Extending condolences to bereaved families and the government and people of Plateau State, the association said it stands in solidarity with all those affected by the tragedy.
Osigwe reiterated that every Nigerian, regardless of background, is entitled to protection and dignity, warning that continued failure to safeguard lives could erode national unity and weaken the rule of law.
