The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the mindless killings in communities in Mangu and Riyom local government areas of Plateau state.
In a statement on Monday in Abuja, the CAN president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, expressed sadness that the killings which started in Mangu villages on Monday, May 15, 2023, by so-called unknown gunmen have claimed many lives and properties with many persons still missing.
He called on the government and law enforcement agencies to fish out the criminals and bring them to justice.
He said the affected villages include Fungzai, Hale, Kubwat, Bwoi, and many other communities of Kombun district in Mangu LGA as well as some communities in Riyom LGA.
The CAN President noted that reports showed that about 130 people were killed, while about 1,000 buildings were burnt in 22 villages.
The statement reads: “We condemn these barbaric acts in the strongest terms possible. It is disheartening to see innocent citizens being killed and their properties destroyed in such a gruesome manner.
“While we appreciate the efforts of the security forces to maintain peace, we call on the government and law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators of these heinous acts to justice and to ensure the protection of lives and properties of all citizens.
“As a religious leader, I implore all parties involved to embrace peace and dialogue as a means of resolving their differences. Violence only begets more violence and we must break this cycle if we are to build a peaceful and prosperous society”.
