U.S., UK condemn Jos explosion

The United States and Britain yesterday condemned the “vicious” bombing in Jos as well as a series of “terrorist acts” on defenceless civilians.

“The US government strongly condemns the multiple bomb blasts in the city of Jos yesterday, as well as the bombing in the Sabon-Gari neighborhood of the city of Kano on May 18 that have resulted in the deaths of more than 100 people,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement, adding that the attacks were “unconscionable, terrorist acts demanding accountability and justice”.

In another statement by the US Embassy in Abuja, the US noted that the attacks demonstrated the criminality of the perpetrators who continue to target defenceless civilians.

The statement reads: “The U.S Embassy in Abuja strongly condemns the multiple bomb blasts in the city of Jos on May 20, as well as the bombing in the Sabon-Gari neighborhood of the city of Kano on May 18.  These vicious attacks on Nigerian civilians and the abduction last month of more than 200 girls in Chibok are unconscionable acts and starkly demonstrate the criminality of the perpetrators who continue to target defenseless civilians.

“We have seen reports that tensions are high in Jos, and we join the voices of those who are appealing for calm.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims.

“The United States met last weekend in Paris with Nigerian authorities as well as our partners and allies to discuss the way forward on confronting the regional security threat Boko Haram poses to Nigeria and West Africa.

“Countries agreed to work together to establish a regional counterterrorism strategy, strengthen regional cooperation, including with respect to intelligence sharing and border security, and mobilize support for sanctions against Boko Haram at the United Nations.

“The search for the missing school girls of Chibok is ongoing.  The Nigerians are in the lead.  We’re continuing to lend our unique assets and capabilities to assist in the search.

“We continue to stand with the Nigerian government and people as they grapple with violent extremism.”

British Foreign Secretary William Hague said:

“I condemn this cowardly, inhumane crime. My thoughts are with those who have been bereaved or injured.

“This attack on the market was a transparent effort to create tension between different groups in a city well known for its diversity where people of different ethnicities and religions live alongside each other. It has resulted in death and tragedy for both Christians and Muslims alike.

“I welcome the restraint shown by the population in the face of this provocation and reiterate the United Kingdom’s continued support to the people of Nigeria.

“Last weekend in Paris the international community and regional leaders made clear their collective determination to support Nigeria and defeat the scourge of terrorism. The Jos attack has only strengthened our resolve.”

U.S., UK condemn Jos explosion