CDHR Condemns Jos Killings, Says Chief of Defence Staff Is Failing in His Duties

By Akinwale Kasali

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, has strongly condemned the Palm Sunday killings in Jos, Plateau State, carried out, allegedly, by suspected herdsmen.

CDHR said the tragic incident has once again plunged communities in Jos and its environs into grief, fear, and uncertainty.

It expressed outrage over the loss of innocent lives, the destruction of homes, and the displacement of residents who continue to bear the brunt of recurring violence.

In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Debo Adeniran, President, and Secretary, Board of Trustees and Comrade Jeremiah Onyibe, National Publicity Secretary, CDHR said the situation in Jos is particularly alarming given its history of communal unrest, making the failure to prevent such attacks even more troubling.

CDHR stated that despite repeated warnings and previous incidents in Plateau State, there appears to be a disturbing lack of effective and proactive intervention by security forces.

The statement further stated that CDHR is especially concerned about the apparent inaction and insufficient response from the Chief of Defence Staff, whose responsibility includes ensuring the protection of civilians and maintaining national security.

“The continued attacks in Jos highlight serious gaps in intelligence gathering, rapid response mechanisms, and overall security coordination.

“The inability to decisively confront and neutralize these threats has emboldened perpetrators and left communities vulnerable.”

CDHR reiterated that the protection of lives and property is the foremost duty of the government, adding that the ongoing failure to secure communities in Jos is unacceptable and represents a grave dereliction of duty by relevant authorities.

“We further call for:

1. Immediate and reinforced deployment of security personnel to vulnerable communities in Jos and surrounding areas.
2. A thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the recent killings, with swift prosecution of those responsible.
3. The establishment of a robust early warning and rapid response system to prevent further attacks.
4. Greater collaboration between security agencies and local community leaders to enhance intelligence and trust.
5. Clear accountability from the Chief of Defence Staff on concrete steps being taken to halt the violence in Plateau State.

The Group said it stands in solidarity with the people of Jos and extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, as it remains committed to advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

It urged the Federal Government to act with urgency and resolve to end the cycle of violence in Jos and across the country.

“Nigerians deserve to live without fear, and anything less is unacceptable”, the statement reads.