NYCN condemns killing of Plateau citizens, Monarch in Ebonyi by gunmen

….Task Nigerians not to vote unproductive politicians 

By Uchenna Okeh Abakaliki 

The leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, Ebonyi State chapter on Friday condemned in totality the gruesome killings of innocent Nigerians in Plateau state and traditional ruler in Ebonyi state by gunmen.

The state chairman, Douglas Ochishi made this known while briefing newsmen in Abakaliki capital of Ebonyi State.

He, however tasked federal and state governments to stop issuing statements and swang into action by stopping these gruesome killings and attacks of innocent Nigerians, especially the traditional rulers.

“We strongly condemn, in the clearest possible terms, the horrific Palm Sunday attack, in Jos, Plateau State, where innocent Nigerians including men, women, and children were brutally killed in cold blood. 

“A day meant for peace, reflection, and hope was turned into one of grief and bloodshed.

“This tragedy is not just painful; but it is unacceptable. 

“Reports that armed attackers, disguised in uniforms resembling those of our security forces, invaded a civilian community and opened fire on defenseless citizens raise serious concerns about the safety of Nigerians and the integrity of public trust.

“Families have been shattered. Communities have been traumatized. We mourn with the people of Plateau State. We grieve with every affected family.

“But beyond mourning, we must ask difficult questions: How did we get here? How is it that Nigerians can no longer feel safe, even within their own homes or on sacred days?

The leadership of NYCN Ebonyi State chapter further stated that “Ebonyi State traditional ruler, Eze Josphat Ikegwu of the Ishinkwo community in Onicha LGA, was reportedly killed by suspected assailants. 

“This came as we are still mourning the brutal murder of the late Eze Francis Igwe of Ndufu-Alike Ikwo community, the father of the former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe who was killed by suspected kidnappers a few weeks ago. 

“These incidents, coupled with cases of homicide and abduction, including those involving children in parts of the state, paint a deeply troubling picture.

“We therefore call on security agencies to ensure that those responsible for these atrocities are urgently identified, arrested, and brought to justice swiftly and decisively. 

“Anything less will only reinforce the dangerous perception that lives are no longer adequately protected in our country.

“We also urge a thorough investigation into the use of fake military uniforms by these attackers, as this poses a grave threat to national security and public confidence in our institutions.

“A nation cannot keep bleeding like this and expect to move forward. We owe the dead justice. We owe the living protection. 

“And we owe future generations a country where no community wakes up to gunfire on a sacred day” he said.

The chairman, Ochishi further tasked Nigerians to vote out unproductive politicians in the forthcoming 2027 general election.

“We strongly caution against the continued recycling of failed and underperforming politicians. 

“The re-emergence of individuals with little or no track record of impactful leadership represents a dangerous setback to our democratic and developmental aspirations.

“The 2027 general elections will be a watershed moment for Nigeria. It is a call to action for all citizens to demand better, expect more, and actively participate in shaping a future defined by progress, justice, and inclusive development” he stressed.