The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Federal Government to declare a day of national mourning in response to the recent spate of killings in Plateau State. Expressing deep concern over the Christmas Eve attack that claimed the lives of about 195 individuals in 17 villages across Barkin Ladi, Mangu, and Bokkos Local Government Areas, NANS Senate President Ekundina Elvis issued a statement demanding swift action.
The Students association, in its statement, expressed dismay over the lack of arrests in connection with the heinous crimes, emphasizing the need for perpetrators to be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted. NANS also criticized the absence of concrete steps by the government to honor the memories of those who lost their lives.
The displaced victims, numbering over 10,000 and seeking refuge in churches, mosques, schools, and private residences, were highlighted as a major concern for NANS. The students’ body called on the government to prioritize the protection of lives and property of Nigerians, urging an end to condolence visitations by the ruling class.
In a direct message to the government, the Students statement read, “As an association, we want to say that enough condolence visitations by our ruling class, the government must make concerted efforts towards the protection of lives and property of the Nigerian people.” Additionally, NANS urged the Federal Government to declare a national mourning day, advocating for the Nigerian flag to be flown at half-mast at all levels.
Prominent figures, including President Bola Tinubu, have condemned the attacks, and the United Nations has called for a thorough investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, fresh threats of attacks have emerged, with invaders reportedly sending warnings to Pushit Community in the Mangu Local Government Area. The Middle Belt Forum has confirmed the threat, prompting heightened vigilance in the region.