The National Catholic Diocesan Priests Association, Jalingo Diocese, in Taraba State has said that the incessant killings across the state would have come to an end if the state government under Darius Ishaku had been more proactive.
The association added that the Ishaku administration appeared unconcerned about finding a solution, thereby escalating the wanton killings.
Chairman of the forum, Rev Fr. Ephraim Sani said this at a press conference in the state capital on Wednesday.
Sani said that the priests were very worried about the killing of innocent people, including a priest, and needless destruction of property across the state.
According to the association’s chairman, human life has become too cheap in the state and Ishaku has not done enough to end the cycle of violence.
“It is unfortunate that even the rules of engagement in wars are no longer observed. Consequently, innocent children and defenceless women are today targets of murderous acts.
“The Taraba State government under Darius Ishaku, with the support of the Federal government should invest more time and resources in the security of the State.
“As the chief security officer of the state, we appeal to his good conscience and his paternal responsibility to constantly visit and ensure that adequate security personnel is deployed in the affected areas.
“In truth, we believe that not much has been done and there is a feeling of abandonment of the common people by the government.
“We must ask ourselves very pertinent questions. Is Taraba State government comfortable with the incessant and continuous crises in the State?
“Are we comfortable with the image of IDPs moving or running helter-skelter within the State during these clashes.
“Does it not disturb us that human lives are destroyed and trampled upon?”
Sani said there was an urgent need for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to unite the people amidst the crisis.
He added that CAN should not only be active during election period, stressing that the people were eager to hear from the leadership of the apex Christian association on the killings.
However, Sani noted that the Catholic priests would continue to pray for an end to the crisis, while appealing for warring groups to bring an end to the killings.
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