CAN rages over spate of killings in Taraba, urges Buhari to match word with action
By Suru Charles, Jalingo
Taraba chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has deplored incessant killings in the state.
A statement on the issue at the weekend in Jalingo, the state capital, pointed to the killings especially in Ussa and Takum local government areas, saying: it is high time that the Federal Government of Nigeria led by President Muhammadu Buhari, “begin to match words with action in the areas of security so as to save the nation from eminent collapse.”
It stressed that the ‘unabating’ attacks have resulted in the death of many innocent people while several commuters also fall victims.” The statement signed by the state chairman of the association, Rev. Dr. Isaiah Magaji Jirapye, claimed that the “security breach has not only worsened but subjected the people to untold hardships, and hampering economic activities.”
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“CAN cannot fold its arms and watch innocent people killed. If government cannot guarantee the security of the people, there is need for the people to be allowed to protect themselves,” the association affirmed. CAN said it “has observed with dismay the series of attacks and onslaught going on for some times along the Takum and Ussa local governments by suspected Fulani militia.”
It felt sad that the “same Fulani militia who have been killing people and of recent soldiers including the Commanding Officer of the 93 Battalion of the Nigeria Army in Takum, can still return within shortest time and attack innocent communities while Federal Government folds its arm as if it does not exist.”
“Why were the security check points mounted along that axis (Mararraba -Takum road) removed prior to the attacks, Where are the security men, why were they withdrawn, who withdrew them, and for what reason?” Government, according to CAN, “must be truthful in its action against terrorism and banditry so as to win the fight.”
It also underlined the negative impact the attacks will have on the people of the state and the country at large as they “are coming at the time the people are supposed to be serious with farming activities.” “If People are not allowed to go to their farms peaceful, only God knows what will happen as there are predictions on impending famine.”
Calling on “believers not to relent in prayers at this trying moment” and not “only to be security-conscious but strive to prioritize their security and well being and resist any form of attack.”
The Trumpet last week reported how soldiers and police personnel have become terrorists prime targets, a situation which has raised anxiety and fears among the people as they can no longer go to bed with their two eyes closed.
