Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has called on the Federal Government to take urgent action to stop the rising wave of killings and kidnappings across the country, especially in Benue and Plateau States. He described the violence as unacceptable and said it must not be allowed to continue.
Falana, who leads the group Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), commended security agencies for their swift response to the killing of 16 people in Uromi, Edo State. In that case, 14 suspects were quickly arrested. He also praised Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for visiting Kano to meet with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and families of the victims. The governor also promised financial help to support those affected.
He noted that the quick arrests and actions taken by both Edo and federal authorities helped reduce tension and prevented revenge attacks. However, Falana said similar urgency is lacking in other places where violence has occurred repeatedly.
He pointed to the ongoing killings in Benue and Plateau States, stressing that the Federal Government has a duty under the constitution to protect every citizen. He urged security forces to act immediately to bring those behind the attacks to justice.
Falana also called on the Attorneys-General of Edo, Benue, and Plateau States to charge all suspects already in custody to court without delay. According to him, delays in justice can lead to further breakdown of order.
He questioned why, despite the presence of military and police officers in all parts of the country, attackers continue to operate freely. He compared the situation to election periods, when thousands of security agents are deployed. He asked why the same level of security effort isn’t used to protect lives.
Falana further advised state governments to work closely with local communities and encourage people to share useful information with security agencies. He said peace and safety will only be possible if people trust and support those tasked with protecting them.
He warned that Nigeria cannot continue watching helplessly while its citizens are killed or abducted daily. He stressed the need for a clear and united response to insecurity, driven by cooperation between the government and the people.
