The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Northern Nigeria has condemned the recent spate of faith-based violence across the country, describing it as a threat to national unity and peaceful coexistence.
Rev. Joseph John Hayab, CAN Chairman in the North, made the remarks during a condolence visit to the Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Jude Arogundade, in Akure, Ondo State.
The visit followed the June 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, which left more than 40 worshippers dead during a Sunday service.
He described the Owo massacre and similar attacks in the North as a national tragedy, emphasising the need for solidarity with survivors and families.
Hayab urged all levels of government to prioritise citizens’ protection, ensure justice for victims, and take firm action against perpetrators, noting that peace cannot thrive amid fear and impunity.
He opined that no Nigerian deserves to die on account of religion, tribe, or region, stressing that the Owo tragedy is a shared national concern.
Former CAN Chairman in Ondo State, Rev. Dr. Ayo Oladapo, praised Bishop Arogundade as a unifying voice for Christians, noting that the suffering of one part of the Christian community affects the whole.
Rev. Fr. Anslem Ologunwa, CAN Chairman in Ondo State, highlighted the Church’s support for victims, including scholarships for about 60 children of the deceased, while Bishop Arogundade thanked CAN for its show of empathy and unity, urging continued government action to ensure peace.
