The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has sounded the alarm over the recent massacre of nearly 60 people in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, warning that the rising tide of violence could plunge Nigeria into anarchy if urgent action is not taken.
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, Secretary-General of the Islamic body, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, described the attack as “deeply depressing,” especially after a period of relative calm in the state.
“The recent killing spree in Bokkos is worrisome and we fear that the way things are going, if not well-managed, it could lead to anarchy,” the statement read. “Government should rise to the occasion and act decisively, as human lives seem to mean nothing anymore in Nigeria.”
The statement, issued on behalf of the group’s leader, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto, lamented the deteriorating security situation and warned against a return to the “dark days of bloodbath” in Plateau.
“Human life is sacred and should be treated as such,” JNI emphasized. “This continued cycle of violence not only dehumanizes our society but also casts Nigeria in a poor light before the international community.”
The group also condemned the recent wave of violence in other parts of the country, referencing a BBC Hausa report that cited the killing of 16 people in Augie LGA of Kebbi State, and the kidnapping of about 50 individuals—including women and children—in Funtua LGA of Katsina State.
“For how long will these tragedies continue without decisive action? Isn’t it time for Nigerians and security agencies to be more proactive, instead of always reacting after the damage has been done?” the statement queried.
JNI urged security agencies to fish out perpetrators and ensure they are prosecuted according to the law. The group also called on the federal and affected state governments to prioritize intelligence gathering and strengthen security operations.
The statement concluded with a call for unity and peace: “No one has the right to live above others in this country. We cannot claim to be human without showing humanity.”
The Sultan of Sokoto extended his condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for divine intervention in Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
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