Stop Boko Haram killings now, JNI tells FG

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Jama’atul Nasril Islam (JNI) has challenged the Nigeria government to bring to a stop the incessant killings and maiming of innocent people by the Boko Haram insurgents.

 The group stated this in a statement, signed by its Secretary General Dr. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, and asked the federal government to wake up to its fundamental and obligatory responsibility of protecting lives and properties of Nigerians, especially the north east where the insurgency is endemic.

The statement stated further: “The government should act fast and stop wallowing in diatribe, as human lives are sacred and must be seen to be treated as so” The group said the sovereignty of the country  has been threatened as a so called ‘Islamic caliphate’ has been curved out of her by the insurgents.

“ it is worrisome and embarrassing how Nigeria soldiers took to their heels and abandoned their bases, arms, ammunition and other military hardware on the approach of the insurgents and that is unfortunate that the Nigeria military only resurfaces after the insurgents might have struck and left a heavy casualties.” The group further  expressed shocked over the brutal murder of young children in their school premises in Potiskum, the murder of a prominent Islamic cleric and his associates in Nafada and indeed the over eight deadly attacks in seven towns within two weeks.

“The town of Mubi was under attack on October 30, Gombe motor park attack on  October 31, Potiskum town on November 3, Nafada town on the 4th of November, Ashaka explosives depot on 5th of November, Maiha town, Potiskum and Kontagora town all came under attack in recent time .“ the statement said.

JNI also condemned the attack on the Emir of Lafia who is a vice president of the group by the Ombatse militia which led to lost of lives and property and destabilized economic activities in the state.

They called on all Muslims to repent and persistently sought Allah’s forgiveness, partake in prescribed Qunut in all Mosques and continue to pray for the restoration of peace and security in Nigeria.

The group extended their profound condolences to the families of the affected victims, the people and government of Adamawa, Borno, Gombe, Kano, Niger, and Yobe states as well as all Nigerians on these sad and unfortunate events.