Islamic group condemns killings in Benue, calls for collective action to stop attacks

An Islamic group, the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), has strongly condemned the recent killings in Benue, expressing deep pain and disturbance over the loss of innocent lives.

JNI Secretary-General, Prof. Khalid Aliyu, in a statement on Monday in Kaduna, declared “The JNI under the leadership under Sultan of Sokoto  Sa’ad Abubakar, is deeply pained and genuinely disturbed by the renewed spate of gruesome killings and bloodletting in parts of Benue State, where scores of innocent and defenseless citizens have been unjustly massacred.

“How long will such senseless killings continue to occur on Nigerian soil? Why has it remained so difficult to security agencies in preempting such catastrophic occurrences on our national lives”.

JNI described the killings a barbaric act, inhumane, ungodly, and a complete betrayal of our common values as human beings.

Aliyu said the sanctity of human life is sacrosanct and must not be toyed with.

“JNI appreciates the efforts of security agencies, we are, however, constrained to express our displeasure at their often reactive posture.

According to him It has become a recurring pattern for security operatives to arrive only after the damage has been done.

“Security must be intelligence-driven, proactive, and prompt if we are to avert future recurrences, which is invariably becoming normalised.

“We call on all relevant stakeholders – government at all levels, religious bodies, civil society organisations, and community leaders, to come together in synergy and sincerity to end this repeated avoidable carnage. Enough is enough.

“Our collective silence or indifference may only serve to embolden the enemies of peace and national unity in Nigeria, “he said.

JNI prayed to Almighty Allah to console the victims’ families, and restore lasting peace and tranquility in Benue State and the entire country.

“We also pray for global peace, justice, and security; for without peace, development is but a mirage.

“As we mourn with Benue, let this serve as a moment of national reflection.

“Let us shun divisive narratives and rise as one humanity to say “No More” to senseless killings, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or political inclination, human life remains sacred and must  be treated as such, as we have repeatedly stated.

“We also commiserate with the government and the good people of Benue over the monumental tragedy.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the quick recovery of the injured, “he said. (NAN)