The Taraba state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the explosion that rocked Jalingo, the state capital on Friday.
State chairman of the association, Isaiah Jirapye, said in a statement on Saturday in Jalingo noted that the explosion occurred four days after the one at Iware, Ardo Kola Local Government Area of the state which left six people death and 19 others injured.
A terrorists group, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) had claimed responsibility for both explosions.
The Christian body decried the way the federal government is handling the fight against terrorists, saying the government is not serious and is merely paying lip service.
“The Jalingo explosion which left some people injured is evidence of the presence of bad elements and terrorists in the state.
“It is satanic for anyone to carry a bomb or explosive device and detonate it among people to kill, it lamented.
“Life is sacred and belongs to God and therefore CAN condemns the Nukkai explosion”, Jirapye said.
He said the people of Taraba state must arise to see that the peace the state is enjoying is sustained and say no to blood thirsting terrorists who are bent on distabilising the peace and unity of the state.
The association called on the Taraba state government to initiate measures aimed at identifying and flushing out criminal elements and their cohorts, which have set up their camps across the state.
The CAN Chairman said winning the fight against criminals is a collective responsibility hence the need for everyone to act as a stakeholder in peacebuilding and stability.
He said, “If you see something say something, security is everybody’s business.
“Tarabans should never be afraid but be strong as God will definitely grant us victory on these challenges.
“It is a time for collective prayers for our land.
“The traditional institution is a fundamental organ in this fight. Government must synergies effectively with them to identify the hub of these terrorists among the people to immediately stop this trend of planting explosive devices in the state.
“It is high time that people should accord eminence to the security of their environment. “They should stay away from unnecessary gatherings and step up serious security checks in official gatherings,” the statement said.
