A fresh wave of concern has emerged after a United States lawmaker warned that Nigeria’s global ties could be affected.
This follows deadly attacks during Palm Sunday celebrations in Plateau and Kaduna states.
At least 40 people were reportedly killed when gunmen attacked communities in Jos and Kaduna. However, police later confirmed that 14 people were killed in Plateau alone.
Moreover, the attacks have drawn international attention, especially from the United States. The situation has been described as troubling, with fears that it may affect diplomatic relations. Consequently, pressure is now mounting on Nigerian authorities to respond quickly.
United States Congressman Riley Moore strongly reacted to the incident. He linked the violence to a pattern of attacks during Christian holy days. He warned that failure to act could lead to serious consequences.
“This Palm Sunday, reports from Nigeria indicate that at least 10 Christians were martyred in the city of Jos. Radical Islamic terrorists opened fire on the Christians before hacking them to pieces with machetes. This is sickening and unacceptable, but it’s not surprising.
“This tragedy follows a pattern of radical Islamic terrorists massacring Christians on Holy Days. In fact, terrorists have attacked Christians in Nigeria on every single holy day in recent memory, except for last Christmas when President Trump sent 12 tomahawk cruise missiles to stop them,” he added.
Furthermore, Moore urged the Nigerian government to act before Easter celebrations. He stressed the need for stronger protection for worshippers across the country.
“Abuja knows this pattern and they must massively ramp up security for the Tridduum and Easter. If they don’t take this threat seriously and mobilise to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ, blood of these martyrs will be on their hands, and there will be significant consequences for Nigeria’s relationship with the United States,” he warned.
Meanwhile, the attackers were said to have stormed the Rukuba community in large numbers. The incident occurred around 7:30 pm, causing panic among residents. Shots were fired, and many victims were reportedly hit during the chaos.
In addition, local leaders have condemned the attack. Dalyop Mwantiri confirmed that several victims died instantly, while others died later in hospital. He called for urgent action to bring those responsible to justice.
The Plateau State government has since imposed a 48-hour curfew in Jos North. This measure was taken to restore calm and prevent further unrest. Residents have been urged to remain indoors and cooperate with security agencies.
However, the impact has extended beyond the immediate victims. The University of Jos rescheduled its examinations due to rising tension. Students and staff were advised to avoid unnecessary movement.
“The Vice Chancellor has directed that all examinations scheduled to hold on Monday (yesterday) and Tuesday (today) will be rescheduled.
This is in view of the Sunday night attack by gunmen on residents of Angwan Rukuba and the consequential tensions it has generated in and around the area.’’
Meanwhile, northern governors have expressed support for the federal government’s security strategy. They reaffirmed their commitment to tackling threats across the region.
