Northern Senators demand arrest, prosecution to deter reoccurrence
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Senators from the 19 Northern states have pressed Abuja to do everything lawful to ensure the arrest, prosecution, and jailing of the terrorists who carried out the latest attacks on the Plateau where about 160 people were massacred in a mad orgy that has festered for more than a decade, defying control by three presidential administrations.
The lives of thousands of Plateau residents have been snuffed out prematurely in sporadic invasions in the North Central state since 2009, unable to be contained by former Presidents Umaru Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari.
Such terrorist attacks in Plateau and elsewhere nationwide are also now buffeting Bola Tinubu with huge embarrassment on the backs of his junketing to global financial centres to solicit for foreign investment in Nigeria.
Who in his right mind will invest in a foreign country with endemic corruption from ground zero to the highest echelons of power, trapped foreign airlines’ funds, extortionate tax system, brazen treasury looting, unstable power supply, insecurity of property topped up with incessant massacres of citizens with bodies to prove?
The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) asked the federal government to take action on the latest Plateau killings, drawing on reports of previous investigations of similar cases and take immediate steps to prevent a reoccurrence.
A statement by Senator Suleiman Sumaila, spokesperson of the NSF in the 10th National Assembly (NASS), condemned the acts and expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the government of Plateau.
“This brutal act is indefensible, devoid of reason, and stains our shared humanity,” the statement said.
“We unequivocally condemn such heinous acts and express our deepest condolences to the affected families, loved ones, the people, and the Government of Plateau State.
“Their immense loss is a collective grief, and we stand united in our determination to seek justice.
“In our legislative role, we strongly condemn this reprehensible act and call upon the authorities to promptly initiate a comprehensive investigation.”
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Allocating resources to apprehend killers
“Allocating necessary resources to swiftly identify and apprehend the perpetrators is paramount. They must face the full force of the law, ensuring justice prevails,” the Senators added.
“During these trying times, unity among citizens is crucial. We must draw on our shared values of compassion, empathy, and respect to support one another and provide solace to those affected. This collective effort will foster resilience to overcome this dark chapter in our history.
“As representatives of the people, we urge the federal government to consolidate investigation reports of similar cases, taking necessary action to prevent future occurrences.
“Moreover, let us reflect on the importance of upholding peace, unity, and understanding within our country.
“We must recommit to fostering an inclusive atmosphere where diversity is celebrated, and differences are resolved through dialogue and peaceful means.
“In conclusion, we reiterate our strong condemnation of this abhorrent act of mass killing.
“We implore everyone to stand united against violence, support the affected families, and trust our law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Together, we shall prevail, and our country will emerge stronger.
“May peace be restored to our nation, and may our hearts find solace in these challenging times.”