CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA CONDEMNS VIOLENCE AGAINST CHRISTIANS, CALLS FOR URGENT GOVERNMENT ACTION

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep concern over escalating violence and insecurity affecting Christian communities, particularly in northern Nigeria, describing the situation as necessitating clear and compassionate response. President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement issued October 8, 2025, affirmed that Christian communities have suffered severe attacks, loss of life, and destruction of places of worship, underscoring the urgent need for decisive government and security agency action to protect all citizens.

Archbishop Daniel Okoh emphasized CAN’s tireless efforts to highlight persecution of Christians nationally and internationally, including establishing incident recording mechanisms, engaging international partners like the World Evangelical Alliance, and communicating with the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Okoh reiterated CAN’s consistent advocacy for justice, peace, and protection of threatened Christian communities. Daniel Okoh stressed that cries for justice are often met with delay or denial, prompting CAN to renew calls for urgent, transparent government action to halt killings, safeguard vulnerable communities, and ensure perpetrators face justice. Daniel Okoh acknowledged government security efforts but urged redoubled action for equitable protection, swift justice for perpetrators, and wisdom among Christian leaders for unity and peace.

The CAN president appealed for courage to address collective failures, grieve together, and rebuild community trust as pathways to Nigeria’s healing and genuine peace. “Nigeria’s healing will not come from denial or blame, but from courage: the courage to face our collective failures, to grieve together, and to rebuild trust within our communities,” Archbishop Daniel Okoh stated in the release. CAN urges government agencies to act decisively against violence, protecting citizens regardless of region, and bringing perpetrators to justice transparently.