As Christians around the world celebrate Easter, millions of Nigerian faithful are observing the symbolic resurrection of Jesus Christ with measured joy due to recent violent attacks in Plateau and Benue states.
Over 100 residents have been killed in Plateau State, with the attacks described as genocidal by Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The governor stated that over 60 communities have been taken over by land-grabbing criminals.
In neighboring Benue State, suspected herdsmen have wreaked havoc on local communities, killing scores and displacing thousands of residents.
Governor Hyacinth Alia has appealed to the federal government to step up security measures in the state, as the death toll from recent attacks rose to 56.
President Bola Tinubu, currently in Paris, France, condemned the killings in his Easter message, saying that the forces of evil won’t prevail over Nigeria.
He extended Easter greetings to Christians in Nigeria and worldwide, celebrating the cornerstone of the Christian faith.
The violent attacks have cast a shadow over Easter celebrations in the affected areas, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region.