killings: Forum calls for urgent govt’s action, accountability

The Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP) has expressed deep sorrow over the recent wave of killings in Benue, Kebbi, Plateau and other states, describing the attacks as senseless and unacceptable. The forum lamented the loss of innocent lives and the displacement of countless residents, urging immediate and decisive action from all levels of government. […]

The Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP) has expressed deep sorrow over the recent wave of killings in Benue, Kebbi, Plateau and other states, describing the attacks as senseless and unacceptable.

The forum lamented the loss of innocent lives and the displacement of countless residents, urging immediate and decisive action from all levels of government.

In a statement issued by Rev. Abainitus Akila Hamman, Co-Chair, IDFP, and Dr. Yussuf Yakub Arrigasiyyu, Co-Chair, IDFP, the forum strongly condemned the violence, which it said continues to destabilise communities and disrupt peaceful coexistence.

The statement reads: “We are deeply saddened by the recent wave of violent attacks in Benue, Kebbi, Plateau, and other states, which have led to the tragic loss of innocent lives, mass displacement of families, and widespread destruction of property. The IDFP strongly condemns these killings and calls on all relevant authorities to take swift and decisive action to prevent further loss of life, dignity, and livelihoods.

“As a forum of committed religious leaders and peacebuilders, we are pained by the ongoing violence that continues to deprive Nigerians of peace, security, and dignity—particularly in the Middle Belt, North-East, North-West, South-East, and other affected regions.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected, as well as to the government, traditional institutions, and religious communities in Benue State. We stand in unwavering solidarity with the people during this difficult period of grief and uncertainty.

“We stand in solidarity with all affected communities and pray for divine healing and restoration across the nation.

“We affirm that every life lost diminishes our collective humanity. The continuation of these attacks and the conditions enabling them are unacceptable.”

The IDFP called on the federal and state governments to:

“Provide immediate humanitarian assistance to victims and implement long-term rehabilitation and resettlement programmes for affected communities.

“Deploy adequately trained and equipped joint military-police security forces to protect vulnerable populations, prevent further attacks, and apprehend perpetrators.

“Strengthen early warning and response mechanisms by establishing community-driven intelligence networks that can identify and report threats before they escalate.

“Set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry, make its report public within three (3) months, and ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts are brought to justice.

“Convene a National Conference to address land use and grazing protocols, food security, and the underlying causes of the farmer-herder conflict.

“Provide urgent support to flood-affected communities, including shelter, food, and medical aid, while implementing long-term flood prevention measures.

“Roll out immediate economic relief packages to support vulnerable families, especially in conflict and disaster-affected areas.

“Ensure timely and transparent communication between government agencies and affected communities to build trust and reduce fear, tension, and misinformation during crises.”

To the communities affected by violence and disasters, it recommended:

“Cooperating with local leaders, security forces, and government agencies by reporting suspicious activities—“If you see something, say something.”

“Resisting incitement and avoiding reprisal attacks.

“Actively promoting unity, healing, and reconciliation within and across communities.

“As faith leaders, we remain committed to building bridges across religious and ethnic divides. Dialogue remains one of the most powerful tools for peace and nation-building.”