The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has clarified its position on the allegation of genocide against Christians in Nigeria.
A free release by Arch Bishop Daniel Okoh, president of the Christian body, stated, amongst other things
that it is worried by the development.
” The national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has followed with deep concern the recent conversations surrounding faith, violence, and the true cost of insecurity across the country. In moments such as these, when passions rise and interpretations differ, it becomes necessary to speak clearly, truthfully, and with compassion, “the release stated.

It said, “CAN affirms, without hesitation, that many Christian communities in parts of Nigeria, especially in the North, have suffered severe attacks, loss of life, and the destruction of places of worship”.
While noting that, the a reality of the situation has bever been list on them, the release described it as painful reminders of the urgent need for government and security agencies to act decisively to protect every citizen, regardless of region’.

“Over the years”, it stated, “CAN and the wider Christian community have worked tirelessly to draw attention, both nationally and internationally, to the persecution of Christians in Nigeria”, stressing that, ‘the Association has established mechanisms for recording incidents of religiously motivated killings, engaged with international partners, written to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, and hosted global Christian organisations such as the World Evangelical Alliance and the Lausanne Movement”. “These sustained efforts,” Bishop Okoh said, “demonstrate CAN’s consistent advocacy for justice, peace, and the protection of Christian communities under threat.”

In voicing out the concerns of Christians, the Arch Bishop notes that it “remains that these cries for justice and protection are too often met with delay or denial. We therefore renew our call on government and security agencies to take urgent, transparent, and equitable action to end the killings, safeguard vulnerable Christian communities from displacement, and ensure that perpetrators face the full weight of the law”.
“The pain of Christian families torn apart by violence must never be treated as mere statistics,” he added.

The release notes that “CAN acknowledges the efforts of government and security agencies in responding to the nation’s security challenges, but urges that these efforts be redoubled towards equitable protection for all. It is equally imperative that perpetrators of violence are brought swiftly and transparently to justice. “
He called on Christian leaders, “to continue to speak and act with wisdom, unity, and faith, knowing that peace is too fragile to be taken for granted.”

The six points release asserted that, “Nigeria’s healing will not come from denial or blame, but from courage: the courage to face our collective failures, to grieve together, and to rebuild trust within our communities. Only then can our nation rise from its wounds and embrace a future of genuine peace”.

At least eight persons have been confirmed dead following an armed attack on Nindama village in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

Sources said that the attack occurred in the early hours of Oct. 10.

The sources said that unknown gunmen invaded the village around 3:30 a.m., shooting sporadically and killing eight residents.

“Two other persons sustained critical injuries and are currently receiving treatment, while six others are still missing,” the sources said.

He said that at about 3:30 p.m., a combined team of security agencies including army, police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) visited the scene along with the Executive Chairman of Kokona LGA, Hon. Agbawu M. Agbawu.

According to the sources, the corpses have been evacuated to the mortuary, while efforts are ongoing to locate the missing persons and apprehend the attackers.

Preliminary investigation, sources said, indicated that the attack may have been connected to a lingering land dispute in the area.

The security forces assured residents of intensified security patrols and urged anyone with useful information to assist the ongoing investigation.

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has described the former Governor of the State, Cornelius Adebayo, as a great leader, a bridge builder, and shepherd who played very important roles at different moments of Nigerian history.

He said history will never forget how he acted with moral courage and humility, making him a hero of the people and good governance.

“Today, I join our community to again commiserate with the family, associates, friends, and the entire people of Kwara on the passing of statesman and leader, His Excellency Cornelius Adebayo, CON,” the Governor said in Ilorin at the Wake Keep ceremony for the late patriot, Chief Adebayo.

“His Excellency, Cornelius Adebayo (CON) was a great leader, a bridge, and a shepherd who played very important roles at different moments of our history.

“Whether as a former Governor, NADECO chieftain, a minister of the Federal Republic, or an Afenifere leader, history testified that he acted with moral courage and humility. He was always a hero of the people, democracy, and good governance.”

The Governor, who spoke at the wake keep of the elder statesman, was represented at the event by his Deputy, Elder Kayode Alabi.

“As we mourn his departure, we are reminded that life is a fleeting journey, and what matters is a legacy of serving God and humanity,” the Governor said.

Families and friends took turns to praise the deceased, acknowledging his virtues, exceptional roles in the family and his community, and his service to humanity.

One of his children, Bimbo Adewoye, said her father had a very large heart and was passionate about God and his family.

“My father dedicated his life to God, his family, and humanity. He believed anywhere he found himself was God’s making. He loved the family and promoted unity among his children,” she said.

Top attendees included Kwara First Lady, Ambassador Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq; Senator Umar Sadiq (Kwara North); House of Representatives member, Raheem Tunji Ajulọ-opin; Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Adebara; Cabinet members; Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi; former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; NACCIMA President, Alhaji Jani Ibrahim; State APC Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi; Chairman, National Health Authority Insurance Authority (NHIA), Sen. Ibrahim Oloriegbe; Olupo of Ajase-Ipo Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu, and Sòún of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afọlábí Ọláoyè Orumógege III; among other royal fathers and dignitaries.

End