CAN Warns of Growing Christian Genocide in Nigeria

The Christian Association of Nigeria CAN has again raised serious concerns over what it describes as ongoing and systematic genocide targeting Christian communities across Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt. According to the association, evidence of targeted killings, mass displacement, and the destruction of Christian settlements has become too overwhelming to ignore.

This firm position was expressed by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, during the opening ceremony of the Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council NEC meeting held in Jos, Plateau State.

A Painful Reality That Must Not Be Ignored

Addressing senior church leaders, Archbishop Okoh insisted that CAN stands by its long-held belief that Christian communities in several regions of Nigeria are facing deliberate and coordinated extermination.

He pointed to years of unpunished attacks, destroyed villages, and widespread displacements of indigenous Christian populations as signs of a much deeper problem.

“Lives have been brutally cut short, communities uprooted from their ancestral lands, families torn apart, churches razed, and hopes shattered,” the CAN President said. “It would be a grave injustice to deny the painful reality of what has transpired.”

He recalled his recent visit to Bokkos, Plateau State, where thousands of Christians remain displaced after repeated violent attacks. He described the emotional suffering, adding that the resilience of survivors was a testimony to their enduring faith.

“We declare with one united voice: you are not forgotten. The Body of Christ stands firmly with you,” he assured them.

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Communities Destroyed and Victims Still Waiting for Justice

Archbishop Okoh criticized what he described as a dangerous pattern of impunity. According to him, entire Christian villages have been destroyed, yet those responsible continue to go free.

Victims have not been compensated.
Displaced persons have not been resettled.
Killings and kidnappings continue without real consequences.

Okoh said that the continued violence shows a troubling national failure that demands urgent reflection and action.

He added that international bodies have started paying attention to the prolonged religious violence in Nigeria. While this global concern is painful, he believes it may finally push authorities to act.

“If international attention is what is required to spur decisive governmental action, then the Christian community in Nigeria welcomes it,” he said.

CAN Calls for Government Action and Humanitarian Relief

CAN urged the Federal Government to immediately stop what it described as the senseless destruction of lives, restore security, and deliver justice to affected communities.

The association expressed concern over the situation of thousands of internally displaced persons IDPs who have remained in camps for far too long. Okoh described this as both a moral burden on the nation and a growing humanitarian crisis.

“No individual should ever be persecuted or killed on account of their faith. This humanitarian crisis must be addressed decisively to prevent further escalation,” he said.

He reaffirmed that CAN would continue to demand accountability, defend the vulnerable, and advocate for peace and unity.

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Plateau Government Promises Continued Support

Representing Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo commended CAN for its moral leadership and advocacy. She said Plateau State has faced some of the worst episodes of ethno religious conflict in recent years.

She pledged that the state government remains committed to restoring lasting peace, securing rural communities, and resettling displaced persons.

Piyo described CAN as a vital partner in rebuilding trust and healing communities that have been torn apart.

“Nigeria needs the church now more than ever,” she said, expressing hope that the deliberations of the council would strengthen national unity and empower religious leaders to champion justice and reconciliation.

A Defining Moment for Peace in Nigeria

As CAN continues to raise the alarm, its message remains clear. The violence affecting Christian communities is far from over, and only firm, coordinated action from government, civil society, and the international community can prevent further destruction.

With thousands still displaced and communities struggling to recover, the call for justice and protection grows stronger each day.

 

 

 

Content Credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi

Image Credit: Vanguardnews.com