From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The President General of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has expressed deep concern regarding the recent wave of attacks and killings in Benue State.
In a statement issued on Monday by the JNI Secretary General, Professor Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, the Sultan questioned, “For how long will such senseless killings continue on Nigerian soil? Why is it so difficult for security agencies to prevent these catastrophic events in our nation?”
He stated, “JNI unequivocally condemns these dastardly and barbaric acts in their entirety,” adding that “these actions are inhumane, ungodly, and a complete betrayal of our shared human values.” He emphasized, “The sanctity of human life is sacred and must not be undermined. As Allah, the Most High, says, whoever kills a soul except in retaliation for murder or corruption is as if he has slain all mankind” (Qur’an 5:32). He insisted that such attacks are unacceptable in a democratic and civilized society.
The Sultan lamented that “human lives are being exterminated with impunity, with no deterrence or timely justice against the perpetrators.” He remarked, “While JNI appreciates the efforts of security agencies, we feel compelled to express our dissatisfaction with their often reactive approach. It has become a recurring pattern for security operatives to arrive only after the damage has been done. This behavior emboldens the offenders and demoralizes innocent citizens.”
He stressed that security must be intelligence-driven, proactive, and prompt to prevent future occurrences, which are increasingly being normalized.
The Sultan called on all relevant stakeholders—including governments at all levels, religious organizations, civil society groups, and community leaders—to join forces sincerely to put an end to this ongoing violence. “Enough is enough. Our collective silence or indifference may only serve to empower those who threaten peace and national unity in Nigeria,” he warned.
“JNI prays for Almighty Allah to console the families of the victims and restore lasting peace and tranquility in Benue State and across the country. We also pray for global peace, justice, and security; for without peace, development remains a mirage.”
As we mourn with Benue State, he urged this moment to serve as a time for national reflection. “Let us reject divisive narratives and unite as one humanity to say ‘no more’ to senseless killings, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation,” he stated.
“Human life is sacred and must be treated as such, as we have consistently emphasized. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of Benue State during this monumental tragedy. We also pray for the quick recovery of the injured. This painful loss affects not only Benue but all of Nigeria. No sane society should normalize such violence,” he concluded.
