By Hosea Parah, Abuja
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam, expressed deep anguish over the brutal killings that occurred on Christmas Eve in Bokkos local government area of Plateau State. The simultaneous attacks across 20 communities within the area resulted in the loss of over 200 innocent lives.
Rev. Pam, who visited the Plateau state government house to console Governor Caleb Mutfwang, conveyed his pain and devastation upon hearing the news of this heinous act. He condemned the perpetrators of the coordinated pogrom and referred to their actions as evil.
Having been away in Rome for preparations regarding next year’s Christian pilgrimage, Rev. Pam emphasized the urgent need to halt the continuous cycle of violence in Plateau State. He lamented that the crisis, which began in 2001, has persisted over the years, leaving a negative impact on generations to come if not addressed effectively.
Rev. Pam commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promptly responding to the situation by dispatching a high-powered federal government delegation led by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima. The delegation expressed condolences to the bereaved families and the Plateau state government. Rev. Pam urged the communities to unite, heed security alerts, and not take their safety for granted, highlighting the importance of peace and unity.
The NCPC helmsman acknowledged President Tinubu’s empathy for the masses and called on the security agencies to be alert and apprehend the criminals as directed by the President.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the State, Arc Sam Jatau, expressed gratitude for Rev. Pam’s show of support during this challenging period. The Governor described the attacks as highly coordinated and organized acts of terrorism carried out simultaneously in 20 communities. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackle this social menace, emphasizing that self-defense is not a crime under any law.
Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the unity of the people of Plateau State, as various ethnic groups canceled cultural activities in solidarity with the affected communities. He praised Vice President Shettima for his prompt response after being informed of the situation in Lagos by the Governor.
Rev. Pam also visited the Traditional Ruler of Bokkos, Saf Lawrence Ishak, and district heads to advocate for peace and forgiveness. At the Bokkos Church Of Christ In Nations (COCIN) Central Church Compound, he addressed the victims, offering prayers for strength and resilience.
The Governor expressed his pride in having Rev. Pam’s support and hoped that this visit would mark the end of the senseless killings.