ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has ignorned the massacre in Plateau State that left over 40 people dead, explaining it as yet again another phase in the shameful cycle of violence.
In a statement released on Tuesday by its Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, AAN voiced outrage over the brutal attack on the Zike community in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, which killed about more than 40 souls in a single night.
“This cold-blooded massacre, which was carried out in the early hours of Monday, April 14, is yet another phase in the shameful cycle of violence that has cloud Plateau State,” the statement read.
AAN emphasized that the tragedy was neither sudden nor expected . “Community members raised alarms ahead of the attack. They warned of threats. They called for help. But once again, they were all ignored. The attackers invaded Zike at around midnight and operated for nearly two hours—killing, burning, and destroying—while security forces were nowhere to be in action.”
AAN made several demands from both the Federal and Plateau State Governments, including:
A thorough, independent investigation into the Zike massacre, followed by prosecutions.
The urgent deployment of well-equipped and accountable security personnel to protect high-risk communities.
Direct humanitarian intervention for survivors, including shelter, food, trauma care, and medical support.
A clear and time-bound strategy to end impunity and prevent further violence, with full community participation.
Structural peace-building measures to address the root causes of the crisis, such as land disputes, ethnic tension, state neglect, and militarized impunity.
The statement also called on President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, and the Chief of Defence Staff to take immediate action.
“Condemnations after each attack mean nothing if they are not followed by concrete action,” the statement added.
“ActionAid Nigeria will continue to stand with the affected Nigerians and amplify their voices.”
