The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the killing of 13 travellers from Zaria who were murdered while on their way to a wedding in Plateau State.
The victims, mostly from the Basawa community in Zaria, Kaduna State, were reportedly ambushed last Friday in Mangu Local Government Area. Their bus, which belonged to Ahmadu Bello University, was set ablaze by a mob, resulting in the death of all 13 passengers.
In a statement on Monday, June 23, signed by Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda and other members of the caucus, the lawmakers described the incident as a “heinous act” and urged both the federal and Plateau State governments to swing into action.
“We strongly condemn the gruesome murder of innocent citizens and call on the authorities to conduct a full-scale investigation to ensure the perpetrators are identified and prosecuted,” the statement read.
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The caucus also emphasised the importance of supporting the survivors, some of whom are receiving treatment in Plateau hospitals, and called for a broader approach to addressing the growing violence in the region.
“There must be justice for the dead and support for the living. Lasting peace requires justice, dialogue, better security, and genuine reconciliation,” the lawmakers added.
They also urged government at all levels to strengthen peace-building mechanisms, implement early warning systems, and ensure swift punishment of offenders to end the recurring cycle of violence.
The caucus expressed condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Kaduna State, pledging to continue pushing for legislative actions that promote peace and national unity.