Human rights organisation, Amnesty International Nigeria, has called for urgent and decisive action to address rising insecurity in Plateau State, even as authorities intensify efforts to restore peace following a deadly attack in Jos North Local Government Area that has claimed over 30 lives.
The group, in a statement issued on Tuesday, expressed deep concern over the Sunday evening attack on the Anguwan Rukuba community, where gunmen reportedly stormed the area and opened fire on residents, leaving scores dead and several others injured.
According to Amnesty, the death toll from the incident has now surpassed 30, with more bodies still being recovered from the affected community, underscoring the severity of the situation and the urgent need for intervention.
Describing the attack as “horrific,” the organisation urged the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, to launch a thorough investigation into what it termed “inexcusable security lapses” that enabled the assailants to carry out the assault.
“The area, nature of the attack and timing show how increasingly vulnerable people are to being killed anywhere and anytime,” the group stated, adding that the incident highlights growing concerns about safety not only in rural areas but also in urban centres.
Amnesty further noted that Plateau State has witnessed a troubling pattern of violence in recent times, warning that communities are increasingly being left exposed to attacks by armed groups.
While acknowledging ongoing government efforts to curb insecurity across the country, the organisation stressed the need for stronger, more coordinated measures to protect lives and property, and to rebuild public confidence in security institutions.
It also called for accountability, urging authorities to ensure that perpetrators of such attacks are identified and brought to justice, as part of broader efforts to deter future violence.
“Nigerian authorities’ failure to tame the tide of this violence is costing people’s lives and livelihoods, and without immediate action, many more lives may be lost,” the statement read.
The organisation further emphasised that beyond official condemnations, there must be a visible and sustained commitment to safeguarding citizens, including improved security presence in vulnerable communities and effective intelligence gathering.
Calling for an end to the cycle of violence across the country, the group urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards lasting peace and security.
