Chris Smith, a member of the United States House of Representatives, has criticised the recent killings in Jos, describing the incident as unacceptable and calling on Nigerian authorities to bring those responsible to justice.
Gatekeepers News reports that gunmen had on March 29 reportedly killed about 28 people at a community bar in Plateau State. The attack coincided with the Christian observance of Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Easter celebrations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Smith said the incident reflects a troubling and recurring pattern of violence.
He referenced a similar attack in 2025 when over 50 people were reportedly killed in Kimakpa village in Miango district of Bassa LGA during the same period.
“The fact that such atrocities are repeated year after year — on the same holy day – underscores the urgent need for decisive action,” Smith said.
“As Christians in Nigeria observe Holy Week and approach Easter Sunday, a time of profound spiritual reflection and celebration, 1 urge the Government of Nigeria to take immediate and concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of all Christian communities in the country. This includes deploying adequate security forces and holding perpetrators to account.”
“The Nigerian government has a fundamental responsibility – and constitutional duty – to protect all its citizens, regardless of their faith.”
“The continued failure to prevent and intercept these targeted attacks not only deepens human suffering, but also threatens the fabric of religious coexistence in the region.”
“The need for the government to step up and protect the lives and religious liberty of Nigerians cannot be overstated.”
“These savage killings, targeting Christians as they gathered during one of the most sacred times of the year, are incredibly heartbreaking and absolutely unacceptable.”
Smith also called on United States to maintain support for victims of religious violence, noting that the country should stand in solidarity with affected communities.
