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IPCR Condemns Killings In Plateau, Calls For Arrests, Prosecutions Of Criminals Involved
IPCR Condemns Killings In Plateau, Calls For Arrests, Prosecutions Of Criminals Involved
By: Michael Mike
Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has condemned the heartless killings of people in Plateau state on Sunday.
In the latest attack in the state, several people were reportedly slaughtered in cold blood in Gashish and Ropp districts of Barkin Ladi and Bokkos local government areas on Christmas Eve.
IPCR lamented that the coordinated attacks were carried out on a day meant to celebrate love, compassion and togetherness. And this was the day these criminals would carried out an evil act that would bring untold agony, suffering and grief to the affected communities.
IPCR, in the statement signed by its Director General, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu on Wednesday, said: “We had in our message on this yuletide celebration, urge Nigerians to keep the flag of unity high, as unity and peace are the hallmarks of a progressive nation.
“As the Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, who have been preaching peace in all the fora I have attended, there’s no doubt that peaceful coexistence is the hallmark of a progressive nation.
“I have insisted that peace, unity and security have the potential to break the vicious circle of underdevelopment and that nation-building is the responsibility of all.
“Bloodletting is not an achievement, but has the potential of scaring investors away from us. Nobody invest in a country where insecurity holds sway, we should all rally round President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his Renewed Hope Agenda, so that we can have the country of our dream.”
“The Nigeria of our dream doesn’t harbour unnecessary killings, the Nigeria of our dream doesn’t harbour hatred for one another. Our dream is to have a viable nation, where citizens have sense of belonging.”
“Let us build the future of our country today and stop the actions and inactions that will put us in a bad light, where the country will be compared with terrorist nations.
“Our security agencies are doing very well, but the Institute is appealing that they put more efforts to address this challenges bedeviling the nation.”
“We condemn the killings and call for peace and conflict resolution on conflict related issues. We also call for the apprehension and prosecution of criminals involved in the killings.”
He added that: “We appreciate the Plateau state governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who promised to settle the hospital bills of all injured victims of Christmas Eve attacks at BarkinLadi and Bokkos local government areas.”
Ochogwu said: “Let’s cooperate with our military and security actors to provide physical security and safety for our citizens, as we innovate and create the right conflict resolution mechanisms to address the protracted communal conflicts. Only together we can make peace happen in our society.”
IPCR Condemns Killings In Plateau, Calls For Arrests, Prosecutions Of Criminals Involved
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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