Lawyard

WHEN WILL THE KILLINGS STOP? The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) condemns in the strongest terms the gruesome attacks carried out on innocent residents in Jos, Plateau State, on Palm Sunday. The reports of gunmen unleashing violence on communities, leading to multiple deaths and injuries, are deeply distressing and painfully remind us of the frightening insecurity confronting ordinary citizens who were simply going about their lawful and peaceful activities. That this tragedy occurred on Palm Sunday, a sacred day for Christians marking the beginning of Holy Week, makes the incident even more heartbreaking. A day meant for prayer, reflection, and hope was instead turned into a day of fear, bloodshed, and mourning. Families who should have returned home from worship in peace were thrown into grief. Communities that should have been united in faith were left shattered by violence. This cycle of attacks, often leaving devastation in its wake, is unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue. The repeated occurrence of these killings paints a troubling picture of impunity. When perpetrators of mass violence continue to evade justice, it sends a dangerous message that human life is expendable. Citizens begin to lose faith in the ability of the state to protect them, and communities are left to live in constant fear. The protection of lives and property is the most fundamental responsibility of government, and the continued loss of innocent lives demands urgent, decisive, and transparent action. We therefore call on security agencies to swiftly identify, apprehend, and prosecute those responsible for the Palm Sunday killings. The Federal and State Governments must immediately strengthen security presence in vulnerable communities in Plateau State and other flashpoints across the country. Intelligence gathering must be improved, response mechanisms must be proactive, and deliberate steps must be taken to prevent further attacks. Beyond words, the victims and affected families deserve justice, support, and reassurance that their pain will not be ignored. The NBA extends its deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and to the people and Government of Plateau State. We share in their grief and stand in solidarity with all those affected by this senseless violence. Nigeria cannot continue on this dangerous path where human life is cheapened, and communities live under constant threat. The recurring nature of these attacks raises serious constitutional and governance concerns, particularly regarding the protection of the right to life guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). Every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or location, has an inviolable right to life and security. When these rights are not protected, public confidence erodes, national cohesion weakens, and the rule of law is undermined. MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN PRESIDENT, NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION