CAN Condemns Plateau Killings, Demands Justice For Victims

SUNDAY April 13, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has condemned the recent spate of killings in Plateau State, describing them as barbaric and a grave affront to human dignity.

In a statement on Sunday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN expressed deep sorrow over the April 4 attacks in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas, which claimed dozens of lives and left many others wounded.

Okoh described the violence as “senseless” and a serious threat to national unity.

He said, “With deep sorrow, CAN strongly condemns the recent wave of brutal killings in Plateau State, particularly the attacks of 4 April 2025, which claimed the lives of dozens of innocent citizens in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas. These senseless acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace.”

The association president, while calling for swift and decisive action, urged security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay.

He also implored the government at all levels to intensify efforts to secure vulnerable communities and prevent further bloodshed.

“We call on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice. We also urge the government—at all levels—to intensify its efforts to secure all communities and prevent further bloodshed. The continued loss of lives in such tragic circumstances is simply unacceptable,” he added.

In solidarity with the bereaved, CAN offered prayers for comfort and healing, particularly as the Holy Week—a period of deep reflection in the Christian faith—commences.

“May God grant comfort to the grieving, healing to the wounded, and peace to every troubled heart,” he stated.

Using the symbolism of Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus Christ’s humble entry into Jerusalem,the CAN president called on Nigerian leaders to embrace servant leadership and rise above personal or political interests in addressing the nation’s pressing challenges.

He said, “True leadership is most vital when lives are at risk and communities are in distress.

“Jesus’ choice to enter Jerusalem on a donkey—symbolising peace and servanthood—remains a timeless example.”

He also made a passionate appeal to Nigerians of all backgrounds to unite in hope and collective purpose, urging them to become agents of peace and justice in their homes and communities.

“As we lift our palm branches today, let them serve not only as symbols of worship but as signs of our collective resolve to work for a peaceful and united Nigeria,” he stated.