A well-known advocate for justice, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has spoken out about the heartbreaking violence happening in parts of Nigeria and is calling for swift, strong action to stop the bloodshed and keep people safe.
In a powerful message released on Tuesday, April 15, Ejiofor said that terrible attacks are happening too often in places like Plateau, Benue, Enugu, Delta, and Edo states—mostly caused by people suspected to be violent herders.
Ejiofor, who is also a lawyer for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB), shared his deep sadness and concern:
“Nigeria is witnessing a grave national tragedy – a relentless wave of violence unleashed by rampaging Fulani herdsmen from Plateau to Benue, from Uzo Uwani in Enugu State to parts of Delta State.”
He said the daily loss of life is heartbreaking:
“The unchecked bloodbath of innocent, defenseless citizens whose only crime is being indigenous to their ancestral lands has become a tragic, daily occurrence.”
Ejiofor reminded everyone that behind every number in the news is a real person with a family and a story.
“Each day, new casualty figures are being reported by the media, reducing human lives to mere statistics, as though we were counting livestock. Behind those numbers are mothers, fathers, children, and breadwinners, fellow citizens whose lives have been brutally cut short by wicked, soulless killers.”
He also shared that the most recent attack in Plateau State led to the deaths of 52 people—and that number might be even higher. He criticized government leaders for not doing enough, saying that just talking about the violence without taking action isn’t helping anyone.
Ejiofor strongly believes that every life matters:
“Let it be made clear that human life is sacred and irreplaceable. Yet in this country, it too often appears that the lives of cattle are valued more than those of human beings. This is a shameful indictment on our government and an affront to our shared humanity.”
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governors of the affected states to take real steps to keep people safe, reminding them of their promise to protect citizens:
“These leaders swore an oath – backed by the constitution – to protect the lives and property of citizens and to guarantee their security. It is a sacred duty, not a negotiable privilege.”
Ejiofor didn’t stop there. He also encouraged communities to look out for one another and not wait for help that may never come:
“I must reiterate: Life is precious. Its sanctity must be preserved. Government at all levels must immediately restore public confidence, secure our communities, and ensure that the safety of citizens is not a luxury but a right for all. Enough must finally be enough – and must be seen to be so.”
His message is clear: it’s time for serious action to protect lives and bring peace back to these communities.
