The Middle Belt Peace Forum, MBPF, has described the perpetrators of the recent attacks in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, Plateau State, as cowards who prey on innocent and defenceless citizens, stressing that such acts of violence are not only inhumane but also a direct assault on the unity and peace of the nation.

The Forum condemned in the strongest terms the actions of the cowardly attackers, saying their only aim is to instil fear and destabilise peaceful communities.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Pastor Bulus Garba, in Jos on Friday, the Forum asked the federal government to ensure that the actions of the enemies of the state are met with a firm and decisive resistance from all arms of the state.

“We condemn in the strongest terms the actions of these cowardly attackers whose only aim is to instil fear and destabilise peaceful communities. Their actions must be met with firm and decisive resistance from all arms of the state,” Pastor Garba said.

Reacting to President Tinubu’s visit to Jos, the MBPF said his decision to identify with grieving communities sends a message of solidarity and reinforces public confidence in the commitment of the government.

The MBPF also said the courage, gallantry, and sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain central to restoring stability across troubled parts of the country.

It expressed concern over the need for greater synergy among security agencies, particularly the role of the Nigeria Police in consolidating gains made by the military.

The Forum pledged its full support to ongoing military operations and called for strengthened collaboration between security agencies and local communities as a critical factor in achieving lasting peace.

It also urged citizens across the Middle Belt to cooperate with security forces by providing timely information and fostering unity within their communities.

“We call on the Nigeria Police Force to rise fully to its constitutional responsibility by effectively supporting the Armed Forces in stabilising and securing areas that have been cleared of criminal elements. Holding and policing such territories is essential to preventing a resurgence of violence,” Pastor Garba stated.

The Forum emphasised that sustainable peace requires a coordinated approach in which the military clears and secures areas, while the police maintain law and order to enable displaced communities to return and rebuild their lives.

The MBPF reiterated its commitment to peacebuilding efforts across the Middle Belt and expressed optimism that with sustained leadership, coordinated security efforts, and active citizen participation, lasting peace can be achieved.

“Together, through unity, vigilance, and collective resolve, we can overcome these challenges and build a safer and more peaceful Middle Belt,” the statement added.