CAN Raises Alarm Over Escalating Incidences Of Kidnappings, Killings In Taraba State
BY AMEH IDUJAGI, JALINGO – The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Lau Local Government Area of Taraba State on Monday called on the state and Federal governments to as a matter of urgent necessity intervene in the incessant kidnappings and killings in the area.
CAN Chairman of Lau Local Government, Rev Fr. Sunday Muke, told journalists at a media briefing in Jalingo that the insecurity in the area has reached a stage where people were no longer sleeping in their homes for fear of being attacked or kidnapped.
He said; “We are calling on the state and federal government to urgently address the wanton killings and kidnapping in Lau. For the past two years, there have been records of kidnappings and serial killings. Religious leaders especially Christian leaders have become targets.
“For instance, the CAN Chairman of Garin Dogo zone, Rev. Mark Jack was kidnapped and killed on 26th Jan 2019 and the Vice Chairman of CAN in Lau, Rev Shawulu Ishaya was attacked and shot in his house on March 20 by armed militia and he is currently receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital in Jalingo.”
While condemning the spate of killings and kidnapping in the area, Muke called on security operatives to carry out intensive surveillance of Babagasa, Lushi, Gwaire and Abbare communities where he alleged that killer squad of herdsmen have found a safe haven and are operating freely.
Also speaking during an interview with journalists, Rev Ishaku Amah, the Pastor in charge of CRC-N Lau, said the herders have taken over their farms as grazing fields.
Amah therefore called on the government to intensify efforts to ensure the return of peace in the area.
On his part, Rev Jonah Shavah who said the issue was not purely a religious one, noted that out of the over 15 people taken hostage since the beginning of 2019, two Muslims were also victims.
Shavah equally called on the government and security agencies to root out the criminals to enable the people return to their homes as the farming season approaches.
