Speak Out for Justice Advocacy Ltd/Gte (SOJA) has condemned the killing of civilians in Angwan Rukuba area of Jos, Plateau State, describing the incident as a grave violation of human rights and a threat to national security.
In a statement issued on Monday, the organisation said the attack reportedly occurred on March 29, 2026—Palm Sunday—when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a gathering of civilians, leaving several dead and others injured.
SOJA stated that the attack, irrespective of the identities or affiliations of the victims, represents a serious assault on human life and dignity, warning that no society can thrive under persistent threats of violence.
“The perpetrators of such acts are not invisible forces—they are individuals who must be identified, apprehended, and brought to justice under the law,” the group said.
The organisation stressed that violence should not be interpreted through religious, ethnic or social lenses, noting that the sanctity of human life transcends all divisions.
It added that the killings contravene key international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, all of which guarantee the right to life and personal security.
SOJA also referenced provisions of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, particularly Section 33(1), which guarantees the right to life, and Section 14(2)(b), which affirms that the security and welfare of citizens remain the primary responsibility of government.
According to the group, Nigeria is obligated under international law to protect citizens from violence and to implement effective measures that safeguard life and security.
It noted that recurring incidents of violent attacks across parts of the country highlight deficiencies in preventive security and response systems, urging authorities to take urgent corrective action.
While acknowledging efforts by security agencies, SOJA called on the Federal Government, the Plateau State Government and relevant institutions to conduct a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the incident.
The organisation further urged the swift identification, arrest and prosecution of all those responsible, including their collaborators.
It also recommended strengthening intelligence gathering, enhancing community-based security structures, reviewing existing legal and operational frameworks, and improving inter-agency coordination and rapid response mechanisms.
In addition, SOJA called for adequate support and relief for victims and affected families, stressing that decisive action is required to restore public confidence, reinforce the nation’s security architecture and uphold the rule of law.
“Nigeria must not become a society where the right to life is routinely undermined by acts of violence. Every loss of life is a blow to our shared humanity and national stability,” the statement added.
