Ulama Forum Demands Probe, Compensation Over Niger, Mambilla Killings
The Ulama Forum in Northern Nigeria has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 young Nigerians in Niger State and the reported killings and displacement of residents in Mambilla, Taraba State.
In a statement issued and signed by its Convener, Aminu Inuwa Muhammad, and Secretary, Engr Basheer Adamu Aliyu, the forum condemned what it described as the “dastardly” killing of the victims in Niger State, including teenagers as young as 16.
The forum said the deaths were particularly disturbing because, according to reports before it, the victims were killed by personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), an agency mandated to protect lives and maintain public safety.
It called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and urged authorities to prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.
The forum also expressed concern over reports of an attack on Fulani settlements in Mambilla, particularly Wuro Geroji in Mbamnga, Taraba State.
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According to the forum, armed militants reportedly attacked the settlements, killing people and livestock, burning houses and forcing hundreds of women and children to flee towards Cameroon.
It urged the Federal Government and security agencies to respond to the incidents “decisively, impartially and within the framework of the law”, stressing that the protection of human life must remain a fundamental responsibility of government.
The forum called for appropriate compensation and relief, including ‘diyyah’ where applicable, to families of those killed in the Niger State incident.
It further urged the government to immediately strengthen security in Mambilla and other vulnerable communities to prevent further attacks and killings.
The group also demanded immediate humanitarian assistance for people displaced by the violence in Mambilla and called for measures to facilitate the safe return of those who fled to Cameroon, subject to prevailing security conditions.
It called for intensified public enlightenment and community engagement on peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, tolerance and good neighbourliness, warning against the dangers of ethnic and tribal divisions.
The Ulama Forum extended condolences to the families and communities affected by the incidents, saying every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, religion or location, deserves protection under the law.
