The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent wave of coordinated attacks in Benue State that has resulted in the deaths of over 200 people, describing the massacre as a "national tragedy" that demands immediate government intervention.
In an official statement signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the apex Christian body characterized the killings as "senseless and horrific," while warning that continued government inaction could deepen the cycle of violence in the region and further destabilize the nation.
"These senseless killings have inflicted immeasurable pain on families, devastated communities, and further entrenched the insecurity threatening our nation," Archbishop Okoh stated. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved and pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls."
Persistent Violence Without Accountability
CAN lamented that Benue State residents have endured repeated deadly attacks for years, often attributed to armed groups, without effective response or lasting justice from authorities.
"For too long, the people of Benue have been subjected to recurrent assaults without meaningful intervention or justice," the statement emphasized. "This persistent failure to safeguard citizens and bring perpetrators to account has emboldened attackers and prolonged the cycle of violence."
Calls for Decisive Action
The association called on the Federal Government to act with urgency and resolve, recommending several immediate measures:
- Deployment of reinforced security personnel to protect vulnerable communities
- Consideration of a state of emergency declaration in the hardest-hit areas
- Launch of a transparent investigation to prosecute all responsible parties
"Justice must prevail to break the grip of impunity fueling these atrocities," CAN stated, while also appealing to the international community to support efforts toward restoring peace and rebuilding trust in Benue State.
The statement emphasized that Nigeria must stop treating the loss of human lives as routine statistics, with Archbishop Okoh reaffirming CAN's commitment to standing for the sanctity of life and advocating for the protection and dignity of all Nigerians, regardless of region or religion.
"We remain unwavering in our call for peace and justice. May peace be restored, and may justice roll down like waters," the Archbishop concluded.
It should be noted that the Nigerian government and Benue State Governor Alia have presented conflicting accounts regarding the death toll and response to the attacks, with the governor stating that military resources are currently overstretched in the region.
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