NBA Urges Federal Government to Strengthen Security in Plateau State After Palm Sunday Attacks
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a strong call to the Federal Government to enhance security presence in vulnerable communities across Plateau State and other high-risk areas nationwide. This demand follows the horrific attacks on residents in Jos during Palm Sunday, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Condemnation of the Killings and Call for Justice
In a statement released on X on Tuesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) vehemently condemned the killings, describing them as deeply distressing. He emphasized the urgent need for security agencies to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those responsible for the violence. Osigwe highlighted that the incident occurred on Palm Sunday, a sacred day for Christians marking the beginning of Holy Week, which he noted makes the tragedy even more heartbreaking.
"A day meant for prayer, reflection, and hope was instead turned into one of fear, bloodshed, and mourning," the statement read. "Families who should have returned home from worship in peace were thrown into grief, while communities united in faith were left shattered by violence. This cycle of attacks is unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue."
Warning on Impunity and Erosion of Public Trust
Osigwe warned that the recurring nature of such killings reflects a troubling pattern of impunity, where perpetrators often evade justice. He argued that this failure sends a dangerous signal that human life is expendable, eroding public confidence in the state's ability to protect its citizens. "Citizens begin to lose faith in the ability of the state to protect them, and communities are left to live in constant fear," he stated. "The protection of lives and property remains the most fundamental responsibility of government, and the continued loss of innocent lives demands urgent, decisive, and transparent action."
Recommendations for Proactive Security Measures
The NBA called on security agencies to improve intelligence gathering and adopt proactive response strategies to prevent further attacks. It also urged both federal and state governments to take deliberate steps to secure affected communities. "Beyond words, the victims and affected families deserve justice, support, and reassurance that their pain will not be ignored," Osigwe added.
Constitutional Concerns and Call for National Cohesion
The association extended its condolences to the families of victims, as well as to the people and government of Plateau State. It further warned that Nigeria cannot continue on a path where human life is devalued and communities live under constant threat. The persistent attacks raise serious constitutional concerns, particularly regarding the right to life as guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution (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," the NBA concluded.
