Prominent human rights lawyer and activist, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has issued a scathing indictment of the Nigerian government’s inaction in the face of unrelenting massacres by armed herdsmen, describing the unfolding crisis as a “grave national tragedy.”
In a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, Ejiofor decried the bloodshed sweeping through communities in Plateau, Benue, Enugu, and Delta States, calling it an “unchecked bloodbath” and a damning reflection of the government’s failure to protect its people.
“HUMAN LIVES REDUCED TO STATISTICS”
Ejiofor lamented that Nigeria has become a nation where mass murder barely sparks outrage, and the lives of citizens are “reduced to mere statistics.”
“Each day, new casualty figures are reported by the media, as though we were counting livestock. Behind those numbers are mothers, fathers, children, and breadwinners.”
The most recent massacre in Plateau State left at least 52 people dead, with unconfirmed reports pointing to an even higher death toll.
“THE GOVERNMENT’S SILENCE IS COMPLICITY”
Ejiofor accused both federal and state governments of offering nothing but “hollow condemnations” while communities continue to be ravaged.
“It too often appears that the lives of cattle are valued more than those of human beings. This is a shameful indictment of our leaders and an affront to our shared humanity.”
He slammed what he described as the “complicit silence” of authorities, warning that the persistent failure to act is fueling public distrust and pushing communities to the brink.
A CALL TO DUTY — AND TO DEFENCE
Ejiofor called on President Bola Tinubu and state governors to rise to their constitutional duties and protect lives and property without bias.
“Security is not a privilege — it is a right. The time for political posturing is over. We demand real action.”
In a striking shift, he also encouraged communities to lawfully defend themselves, citing the diminishing public faith in government protection.
“ENOUGH MUST BE ENOUGH”
Ejiofor’s call comes amid mounting national outrage over the rise in terrorist-like attacks by herdsmen, which many see as a test of the Tinubu administration’s resolve.
“The continuous slaughter of innocent Nigerians and the government’s inertia is both condemnable and unacceptable. Enough must finally be enough — and must be seen to be so.”
As Nigeria’s insecurity crisis deepens, Ejiofor’s words resonate as a call to conscience, and a rallying cry for urgent change.
