Benue killings: Northern CAN urges Tinubu to declare total war on killer gangs
In response to the recent killing of over 100 people in Benue and Borno states by terrorist groups, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a total war against violent criminal gangs.
The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the association’s Secretary General, Elder Sunday Oibe, who decried the worsening security situation in the region.
According to CAN, violent attacks carried out by Boko Haram terrorists and criminal herdsmen have continued to make life unbearable for innocent citizens, with many communities under constant threat.
Citing recent incidents, the association said, “On Saturday, June 13, we received distressing reports of attacks by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
“These attacks occurred less than 48 hours after the tragic killings of 25 people in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa communities, in Makurdi LGA, resulting in massive loss of lives and widespread displacement of residents.
“Reports indicate that many internally displaced persons (IDPs) and farmers were killed, with some reportedly burnt alive in makeshift shelters. The gunmen, reportedly armed with sophisticated weapons, were said to have launched the attack around midnight and operated for over two hours.
“Similarly, last week in Borno State, one person was killed, and Rev. Fr. Daniel Afina, a Catholic priest and project coordinator of a Christian NGO, along with nine others, were abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on the Gwoza-Limankara Road. The group was returning from Mubi in Adamawa State when they were ambushed,” said Northern CAN.
While lamenting that, the security situation appears to be worsening at a time when it was hoped that the criminal elements had been contained, Northern CAN called on the Federal Government to take decisive and comprehensive action to stop the killings and restore peace and security.
It acknowledged that, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made initial progress in curbing the violent activities, it however appealed that, the gains be sustained and expanded.
“We urge the President to urgently declare total war against these criminals and direct security agencies to neutralize the threat within a clear and enforceable timeframe. Should the situation prove beyond the capacity of Nigeria’s security forces, the government should seek international assistance to halt the killings and abductions.
“The killings are unacceptable; even within the animal kingdom, this brutality is generally limited, yet in Nigeria, innocent lives are lost senselessly and repeatedly. In Benue State, many people have been displaced, farmers cannot go to farm.
“It is imperative that the people of Benue unite and collaborate closely with security agencies to bring an end to the bloodshed. Likewise, the menace posed by Boko Haram and associated terrorist groups must be decisively checked to prevent further loss of life and abductions.
“The sovereignty of our nation and the safety of its citizens depend on a robust and unwavering response from all security apparatus. We call on the government and security agencies to marshal all necessary resources and resolve to eradicate these threats without delay,” said Northern CAN.
