The Christian Association of Nigeria has expressed sadness over the violent attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, where worshippers were killed and several others abducted during a prayer service. It also called on government to act swiftly on security issue.
The Christian body made the call in a statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
The statement also described the assault on peaceful citizens gathered for worship as a heartbreaking reminder of the growing insecurity facing Christian communities across the country.
The statement reads, “We stand in solidarity with the families who lost loved ones, with those injured, with the abducted, and with the entire Eruku community in their moment of grief. Their pain is our collective pain, and their trauma is one that no community of faith should ever be forced to endure.
“We note with deep concern that the Eruku attack adds to a pattern of repeated assaults on Christian populations in vulnerable regions, an issue CAN has consistently raised before government authorities and the international community. Although official responses have often dismissed fears of targeted violence, the frequency and intensity of these incidents continue to provoke legitimate national and global alarm.”
The Christian body then called on the security agencies to move swiftly to rescue the abducted worshippers and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Part of the statement reads, ‘A transparent and credible investigation is essential to reveal how this attack happened, identify lapses in security, and restore public confidence. The affected families also require immediate medical, emotional and material support at this very difficult time.”
CAN also emphasised the urgent need for stronger protection of places of worship, especially in areas repeatedly exposed to violent threats.
While highlighting the importance of a long-term national security strategy capable of confronting terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent attacks across the country, CAN appealed to religious, traditional and community leaders to help maintain calm and prevent any form of reprisal.
“Our collective focus must remain on justice, healing and peace, pursued through lawful and constructive means.” The body stated..
CAN promised to monitor developments closely and engage with authorities and partners to ensure that the victims of the Eruku attack receive justice and that Christian communities across Nigeria are better protected
