Ben Agande and Chinyere Amalu
2 December 2008
THE European Union Commission has condemned the Friday violence that broke out in Jos, Plateau State in Nigeria, which claimed over 500 lives.
In statement issued by the Commission yesterday in Abuja, the European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, Louis Michel, said it is sad and unfortunate.
He said: "I'm deeply saddened that so many people have lost their lives, have been hurt or have been left homeless by this appalling violence.
"I condemn in the strongest terms the events that took place in Jos and earnestly appeal to the Federal and State authorities to investigate and to address the root causes of these events."
"Already in the past, people in Jos and in other areas of Nigeria have suffered as a result of similar outbursts of violence.
"I appeal to all local and national politicians and leaders to promote peaceful dialogue, understanding and cooperation among their supporters to avoid the reoccurrence of similar events in Nigeria ".
The Commission however, deplored any form of violence and expressed satisfaction that the situation has been brought under control by the Federal and State authorities.
He also hoped that suitable measures would be taken to prevent a possible spread of violence elsewhere in the country.
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