Ben Ezechime, Enugu
Professor Joy Ezeilo, SAN, has joined Nigerians and the International Community to condemn the recent killing of innocent citizens of Benue State, Nigeria.
Ezeilo made the condemnation through her X-handle on Tuesday, saying that the time has come to stop the “senseless killings” in parts of the country.
“My heart is heavy. The horrific and inhumane attack that occurred in Benue State two nights ago, where over 200 innocent lives, including women, children, and the elderly, were burnt to death in their homes, is further proof that nowhere is safe again for Nigerian citizens.
“This appalling act is not only a blatant violation of the law but a grave crime against humanity, underscoring the escalating insecurity and unchecked impunity that threatens the very core of our nation.
“These relentless massacres and senseless bloodshed must come to an end.
“Enough is enough! It is the fundamental duty of our government to safeguard lives and property.
“The right to life is sacrosanct and constitutionally guaranteed,” Ezeilo said.
The erudite professor and founder of Women Aid Collective (WACOL), called on both the Federal and State governments, alongside the nation’s security agencies, to fulfill their constitutional mandate by prioritising the protection of citizens.
“It is intolerable that communities remain exposed and vulnerable while perpetrators of such atrocious crimes operate with apparent impunity.
“This massacre must not go unpunished; we need to understand the root causes and ensure accountability.
“We demand a thorough investigation, swift justice for the victims, and immediate humanitarian support for those who have been displaced,” she said.
Ezeilo said that Nigeria could not afford to normalize these killings, adding that every Nigerian life matters.
“The government must act decisively and transparently to restore peace and rebuild trust in the system,” Prof. Ezeilo twitted.