BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has raised serious concerns over the intensifying wave of insecurity across the country, warning that the latest coordinated attacks appear designed to further destabilise the nation and inflict deeper pain on innocent citizens.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, described the tragic assault on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Kwara State where worshippers were killed and several abducted as another heartbreaking reminder of the grave security challenges confronting Nigerians.
He also condemned the killing of a senior military officer, a General, by ISWAP terrorists in Borno State, alongside the abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi State, noting that the pattern of attacks underscores a disturbing escalation in criminal activities targeting both civilians and security operatives.
Rev. Hayab said Northern CAN stands in full solidarity with the affected families and communities, stressing that the trauma of losing loved ones or having children in captivity is an agony words cannot fully capture.
He expressed the association’s prayers for divine comfort for the bereaved families, quick recovery for the injured, and the safe return of all abducted persons.
While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continued sacrifice and bravery, the association warned that the resurgence of these terror activities is a deliberate attempt to weaken national cohesion and dampen the morale of troops on the frontlines.
He urged the newly appointed security chiefs to intensify operations and demonstrate renewed resolve to defeat insurgents, bandits, and criminal networks threatening the country’s peace.
Rev. Hayab further called on the Federal Government to strengthen the security of schools, worship centres, and vulnerable communities, insisting that Nigerians expect firm and decisive action that leads to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators of these heinous attacks.
Describing the incidents as unacceptable acts of evil that must not be allowed to fester, the Northern CAN appealed for stronger collaboration between security agencies, state governments, and community leaders to prevent further tragedies.
He emphasised that safeguarding the lives and dignity of Nigerians must remain the government’s top priority, adding that the nation cannot afford continued losses at the hands of terrorists and criminals.
