By Citizenship Newspaper
A group of lawmakers has condemned the recent killing of 31 wedding travelers in Plateau State, demanding that the government launches a full investigation and implement security reforms.
The lawmakers, led by Rep Kingsley Chinda, expressed outrage and sadness over the attack, which targeted members of the Basawa community from Zaria, Kaduna State, who were traveling to a marriage ceremony.
In a press statement, the lawmakers commended the prompt intervention of the Nigerian Army but questioned how the nation had reached a point where innocent travelers could be mistaken for threats and killed in cold blood.
They attributed the crisis to the absence of effective state protection, leading to vigilante groups and suspicion.
The lawmakers called for a holistic approach combining justice, dialogue, security, and reconciliation, and urged the Plateau State and Federal Governments to investigate the attack and bring perpetrators to justice.
The Lawmakers emphasized
Full investigation into the attack and demand Justice for perpetrators,
“Security reforms in Plateau State Dialogue and reconciliation initiatives.
“Among the 12 killed were the father, younger brother, and uncle of the groom. The grief and anguish visited upon this family, and upon a community that had set out in joy, are both staggering and unconscionable.
“According to survivors, the victims had clearly explained their mission: they were not combatants, nor were they party to any conflict. They bore no weapons, only gifts, kola nuts, and goodwill. Yet, they were met with suspicion, rage, and deadly violence. The assailants ignored every plea for understanding. Such cruelty offends the conscience of every peace-loving Nigerian.
“We commend the prompt intervention of the Nigerian Army, whose swift action prevented further loss of life. But we must ask: how did we get here? How did we become a nation where joyful travelers can be mistaken for threats, and murdered in cold blood he said
The lawmakers extended their deepest sympathies to the grieving families of Basawa, hoping that the tragedy would be a turning point for action.
