The Christian Faith Reporters Association (CFRA) has described the recent killings in Jos as “deeply troubling,” warning that the violence has cast a shadow over this year’s Easter celebrations and renewing calls for justice and peace across Nigeria.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that tension escalated in Jos after gunmen attacked residents of Angwan Rukuba in Jos, leaving at least 28 people dead.
Following the attack, the state government imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
However, the state government eased the curfew earlier imposed on Jos North.
In a statement issued to mark Easter, the association said it “called on Nigerians to embrace hope, justice, and a renewed commitment to peace,” even as Christians commemorate a season it noted “represents sacrifice, redemption, and the triumph of life over death.” However, it lamented that “this year’s celebration is overshadowed by grief following the tragic killing of innocent civilians in Jos, Plateau State, on Palm Sunday.”
The statement, signed by the President of the Association, Adeola Ogunlade, said the incident was “deeply troubling,” stressing that “a period meant for peace and spiritual reflection was instead marred by violence, sorrow, and the loss of lives.”
CFRA added that the Jos killings underscore the urgent need to protect human life and restore confidence in national security.
Reflecting on the message of Jesus Christ, the association urged leaders to act decisively, noting that Nigerians—especially those in authority—must “uphold the core values of Easter, including sacrifice, justice, love for humanity, and courage in confronting evil.” It warned that “no society can flourish amid persistent bloodshed.”
The group expressed solidarity with victims, stating that “their pain resonates across the nation and that their demand for justice must not be ignored,” while also reminding citizens that “Easter offers a message of hope, even in the face of tragedy.”
While acknowledging ongoing government efforts, CFRA maintained that “more decisive, proactive, and sustained actions are urgently needed,” pointing out that “recurring attacks on vulnerable communities” require “a more strategic and result-oriented approach to security.”
It further called on authorities to “ensure the swift apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for the killings,” alongside “the implementation of concrete measures to prevent future occurrences,” stressing that “Nigerians deserve to live, work, and worship without fear.”
The association also urged citizens to “use the Easter season as an opportunity to promote peace, unity, and mutual respect across religious and ethnic divides,” calling for “a collective commitment to reject violence and build a just and harmonious society.”
It concluded with hope that the Easter message would “inspire national healing, strengthen the pursuit of peace, and guide the country toward restoration.”
