In a scathing indictment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, renowned human rights activist and Chairperson of the Northern Star Youth Empowerment Initiative, Hajiya Najatu Muhammad, has decried the recent massacre in Bokkos, Plateau State, describing it as a tragic testament to a government she says has lost both moral compass and control.
The massacre, which occurred between April 2 and April 3, 2025, left more than 60 people dead, with several communities razed and families torn apart. In a statement titled “Communities in the Abyss, Country on the Brink”, Muhammad held nothing back as she accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government of gross incompetence, willful neglect, and systemic failure.
“As the nation prepared to bury the 19 victims of the Edo massacre, fresh blood was spilled in Bokkos,” she lamented. “This isn’t just failure; it is horror institutionalised. The Tinubu-led government has not only failed to secure lives but is now presiding over a reign of terror and impunity.”
Muhammad questioned the timing and frequency of such attacks, suggesting that they may be part of a larger, more sinister plot to destabilise Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Is this just another case of incompetence, or are we witnessing a brutal, calculated effort by elements within the system to incite chaos and fear for political gain?” she asked. “Considering how deeply unpopular and ineffective this administration has become, Nigerians must now confront the frightening possibility that these atrocities are not random.”
The activist criticised the security agencies’ sluggish response during the Bokkos massacre, accusing them of watching passively as assailants unleashed mayhem for hours. She further alleged that appointments to key security positions are now dictated by tribalism and sycophancy, rather than merit, professionalism, or integrity.
“Security in Nigeria is now an auction,” she charged. “Postings and promotions go to the highest bidder or the most loyal praise singer. Our security architecture is no longer designed to protect citizens, but to serve corrupt elites and shield their stolen wealth.”
Muhammad also rejected the recent claim by National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, that insecurity had dropped by 90% under the Tinubu administration.
“When officials lie so brazenly in the face of daily bloodshed, we are truly doomed. Ribadu’s assertion is not only absurd and insincere, but an insult to grieving families and a mockery of the Nigerian people,” she said.
She accused the federal government of turning a blind eye to the root causes of terrorism and banditry, even as violent actors operate with impunity.
“In the face of these killings, where is the President? In France, striking questionable deals with a declining globalist elite, while Nigeria burns. What can be worse than leaders who abandon their people in their darkest hour?” she asked pointedly.
Muhammad also warned that Nigerians can no longer rely on the state for protection and must begin to consider self-defence as a viable option.
“When a government abandons its primary responsibility—the protection of lives and property—it loses legitimacy,” she stated. “This situation is unsustainable. Nigerians must now start preparing to defend themselves and their communities. What cannot be sustained, must end.”
Despite her strong words, Muhammad extended her heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Plateau State, expressing deep sorrow over the lives lost in Bokkos.
“We mourn with you. We stand with you. But mourning is not enough. This nation must wake up before it is too late.”
PIONEER NEWS 