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ActionAid Blames Plateau Killings on Governments Glaring Incompetence, Insensitivity
ActionAid Blames Plateau Killings on Governments Glaring Incompetence, Insensitivity
By: Michael Mike
ActionAid Nigeria has laid the blame of the massacre in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State, which claimed the lives of over 150 innocent individuals and left thousands displaced, at the doorstep of state and federal governments, insisting that governments at both levels are glaringly incompetent and insensitivity.
The non-governmental agency in a statement on Thursday signed by its country director, Andrew Mamedu while
vehemently condemning the brutal massacre, said: “This horrific incident lays bare the glaring incompetence and insensitivity of both the federal and state governments, as well as security agencies in responding to human rights violations swiftly.”
Mamedu said: “The security agencies have failed woefully in their fundamental duty to protect citizens and the tardiness in responding to critical situations must be promptly addressed and rectified.”
ActionAid Nigeria called for the following immediate, resolute action from the Federal and State governments, security agents, and relevant ministries, departments, and agencies: “The security agencies must ensure that the perpetrators behind this heinous crime are promptly identified, apprehended, and subjected to the full extent of the law. The government’s duty is to demonstrate that such atrocities will be met with unwavering justice.
“The federal government must urgently deploy a substantial military presence in vulnerable areas to prevent further bloodshed, reprisal attacks and guarantee the safety of citizens.
“The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and state emergency management agency (SEMA) must expedite the delivery of humanitarian aid to the displaced, addressing their immediate needs for safe shelter, quality food, and accessible medical care. A lackadaisical approach to this humanitarian crisis will not be tolerated as this will exacerbates the suffering of already traumatised families.
“The State government must confront and resolve the longstanding causes of ethno-religious conflicts in Plateau State through comprehensive community engagement, dialogue, and reconciliation efforts. The recurrence of the same tragic events is a damning indictment of governmental failure.”
Action Aid also added that: “The state government must also coordinate with FEMA and SEMA to address the persisting issue of discrepancies in the numbers reported dead during the incidents. The lack of accurate and consistent data poses a significant challenge, hindering effective response and accountability. The provision of accurate information is crucial for providing justice to the victims and their families, as well as maintaining public confidence in crisis management.”
It warned that it would not hesitate to engage citizens to vehemently demand an end to the government’s apathy and the tardiness of security agencies that blatantly disregard human rights, adding that: “We demand a paradigm shift in all tiers of government from a reactive stance to a proactive approach in addressing security challenges. It is imperative to prioritize preventive measures over reactionary responses to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens, fostering the creation of a resilient and secure nation.”
ActionAid Blames Plateau Killings on Governments Glaring Incompetence, Insensitivity
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
By: Michael Mike
A human rights organisation, Speak Out for Justice Advocacy Ltd./Gte. (SOJA), has condemned the reported abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident and the alleged killing of a teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, as “a case too many.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group expressed deep concern over reports that armed attackers abducted teachers and students from schools within the council area around May 15, 2026, while Mr. Oyedokun, a Mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, was reportedly killed during the incident.
The organisation said several victims were still believed to be in captivity awaiting rescue.
SOJA, led by its Founder and Executive Director, Hameed Ajibola Jimoh, commiserated with the affected families and communities, warning that repeated attacks on schools and civilians across parts of the country were becoming alarming.
According to the advocacy group, the incident, if confirmed, raises serious constitutional and human rights concerns under both Nigerian law and international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, SOJA stressed that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” while Sections 33, 34 and 35 guarantee the rights to life, dignity and personal liberty.
The group also referenced Nigeria’s obligations under several international and regional legal frameworks, including the United Nations-backed International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC).
SOJA argued that the obligations imposed by these instruments go beyond symbolic commitments, requiring authorities to take practical and preventive steps to protect lives, especially those of vulnerable groups such as school children and teachers.
“The implication of these obligations in the present circumstances is that government responsibility extends beyond merely reacting after tragic events occur,” the statement said.
The organisation acknowledged reports that security agencies had intensified rescue operations and investigations, but maintained that recurring attacks on schools demanded more decisive and proactive measures.
“This is a case too many,” the statement added.
SOJA therefore called for the immediate intensification of lawful rescue efforts for those still in captivity, a thorough investigation into the incident, prosecution of perpetrators, strengthened security around schools and vulnerable communities, and adequate support for affected victims and families.
The group further urged the government to undertake a comprehensive review of strategies aimed at preventing future attacks on educational institutions.
“Teachers should not become targets. Schools should not become zones of fear. Children should not bear the burden of insecurity,” the organisation stated.
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace have recovered a suspected stolen motorcycle following a pursuit of suspected motorcycle snatchers in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. on May 21 along the Bachi-Banghai road after troops received reports on the activities of suspected motorcycle snatchers in the area.
The sources said the troops immediately mobilised and pursued the suspects, who abandoned the motorcycle and fled upon sighting the security personnel.
According to the sources, the recovered motorcycle has been secured, while efforts were ongoing to identify the rightful owner and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The military said the operation formed part of sustained efforts to combat criminal activities and enhance security across Plateau.
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
Troops launch rescue operation after abduction in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace have launched a rescue operation following the abduction of a resident in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on May 21 when gunmen reportedly abducted Mr Eze Emeka from his residence at Agingi village.
The sources said troops swiftly responded to the distress report and commenced rescue operations in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to the sources, efforts were ongoing to track down the kidnappers and secure the safe release of the victim.
The military assured residents that security forces were intensifying operations to curb criminal activities in the area.
Troops launch rescue operation after abduction in Plateau
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