NIGERIA: CAN Demands Swift Rescue Of Abducted Worshippers In Kwara

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned Tuesday’s bandit attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, describing it as a heartbreaking reminder of the escalating insecurity facing Christian communities across the country.

In a statement issued Thursday by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association expressed deep sadness over the assault that killed worshippers and led to the abduction of several others during an evening prayer service.

Okoh urged security agencies to act immediately to rescue those abducted and conduct a transparent investigation into the incident, warning that the attack adds to a disturbing pattern of repeated assaults on Christian populations in vulnerable regions.

He noted that despite official dismissals of fears of targeted violence, the frequency and intensity of such incidents continue to provoke legitimate national and global alarm.

The CAN president called for stronger protection of places of worship and a comprehensive long-term national security strategy to tackle terrorism, banditry and violent extremism, ensuring safety and dignity for all Nigerians regardless of faith.

While extending solidarity to the bereaved families, the injured and the Eruku community, CAN appealed to traditional and religious leaders to help maintain calm and prevent reprisals, insisting that the collective focus must remain on justice, healing and peace through lawful means.

The association pledged to continue monitoring developments and engaging authorities to ensure justice for the victims and better protection for Christian communities nationwide.