The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has condemned the recent killings in Plateau State, warning that Nigerians must not become so used to violence that the deaths of innocent citizens are treated as normal.

The association said at least nine people were reportedly killed in attacks across communities in the state, including a pastor who was on his way to church.

In a statement issued in Kaduna on Tuesday, NCA Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, urged the Federal and Plateau State governments, as well as security agencies, to move beyond reacting to attacks and strengthen measures to prevent them.

According to the association, the attacks occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning in parts of Barkin Ladi, Riyom and neighbouring communities.

It said five people travelling towards Gana-Ropp in Barkin Ladi were reportedly killed after their vehicle came under attack, while a pastor and another person were killed on their way to church at Dorowa Babuje.

Separate attacks were also reported in Baten Wereng and Ratyidi.

Hayab said the recurring violence should concern Nigerians regardless of their ethnic, religious or political differences, stressing that every life lost represents a human tragedy.

“Every life lost represents a human tragedy that should command the attention of government and the wider society,” he said.

The NCA chairman urged Nigerians not to allow the frequency of killings to weaken their compassion or make such incidents appear ordinary, noting that victims leave behind families and communities that continue to suffer the consequences.

While commending the Federal and Plateau State governments and security personnel for their efforts, Hayab called for an urgent review of security measures in vulnerable areas.

He said security agencies should strengthen intelligence gathering and early-warning systems to enable them to identify and respond to threats before attacks occur.

Hayab also called for closer cooperation between security agencies and local communities, saying residents are often the first to notice suspicious movements and activities.

He urged authorities to establish effective channels for residents to share security information and ensure that credible intelligence receives prompt attention.

The association further called for thorough investigations into the attacks and urged security agencies to arrest and prosecute those responsible in accordance with the law.

The NCA also expressed condolences to the families of the victims, affected communities and the Plateau State Government, while calling for support for residents whose lives and livelihoods have been disrupted by the violence.

It said the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security system should not be measured only by how authorities respond after attacks, but also by their ability to anticipate threats, prevent violence and protect vulnerable communities.

NCA Condemns Plateau Killings, Calls for Proactive Security Measures

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