The Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS), a coalition of civil society organizations, journalists, and activists, has strongly condemned the recent spate of violent attacks in Plateau State and issued an urgent call for immediate government intervention.

This follows the latest attack on Monday, April 14, where armed assailants stormed Zikke and Kimapa villages in the Bassa district, killing 51 people. The attack comes just a week after a similar assault claimed 52 lives and displaced over 1,800 residents, underscoring a worsening humanitarian crisis in the state.

In a press statement released on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the AGFCS criticized the government’s continued assurances without decisive action. The group emphasized that the repeated attacks by non-state actors reflect a breakdown in security and a violation of the rights enshrined in Section 14 (2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, which states that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

“These gruesome killings not only contradict this constitutional provision but also constitute a brazen violation of the victims’ fundamental rights to life and property,” the statement read. “Gunmen have become emboldened by the lack of accountability and timely response, while helpless civilians continue to pay the price.”

The coalition warned that the sustained violence could further suppress civic participation and erode trust in democratic governance if not addressed promptly.

While acknowledging efforts to provide temporary humanitarian camps, the AGFCS called for comprehensive measures, including:

– Deployment of adequate security personnel to vulnerable communities
– Thorough investigation into the attacks and swift prosecution of perpetrators
– Long-term resettlement plans for displaced persons
– Increased federal presence and support to Plateau State authorities

“We stand in solidarity with the victims and all affected by the violence,” the statement concluded. “The time for reassurances is over. The people demand justice and action—now.”

The statement was Signed by a coalition of 20 civil society organizations including Vision Spring Initiatives, Open Arms Initiative for Sustainable Development, Disability Not A Barrier Initiative (DINABI), Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative, Spaces for Change|S4C, and others.