CSW calls for ‘urgent’ security review after fatal attack on Christians in Nigeria
ICC Note
“We acknowledge it is a huge task – but enough is enough.”
By Brian Hutt
07/20/2010 Nigeria (Christian Today)-The head of Christian Solidarity Worldwide has called upon the Nigerian authorities to urgently review security arrangements for the volatile Plateau State after another deadly attack on Christians last Friday.
Ten people, including children, are believed to have been killed in the attack on Mazah village by Fulani Muslims in the early hours of Friday morning. The attackers frightened villagers out of their homes by firing gun shots before hacking them down with machetes as they attempted to flee. They also burned homes and churches to the ground.
Villagers claim that although security forces arrived at the village in time to stop the attackers, they stood back and remained outside the village until the attack had come to an end before entering.
Stuart Windsor, director of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, said it was a “sad time” for the people of Mazah.
“Once again, unarmed and peaceful villagers have been attacked and murdered in their beds, and once again there are indications that the security forces have not taken effective action, despite being in a position to do so,” he said.
“We once again urge the Federal authorities to urgently and comprehensively review the current security arrangements for Plateau State in order to ensure that vulnerable communities are protected and army units unwilling or unable to fulfil their duties effectively and without bias are brought to book.”
“We appeal to President Goodluck Jonathan and his administration to take firm action now to ensure that the military and police carry out their full responsibilities and protect Christians properly.
“We acknowledge it is a huge task – but enough is enough.”
