The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent violence in Jos, describing the incident as one of the most disturbing episodes in the ongoing wave of insecurity across the country.
The association’s reaction followed the deadly events in Angwan Rukuba, located in Plateau State, where several lives were lost under tragic circumstances.
Speaking through its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the body expressed outrage that such a horrific act could occur on a day that holds deep spiritual meaning for Christians worldwide.
Palm Sunday, typically associated with peace, reflection, and renewed hope, instead became a moment of grief and shock for many families.
According to the CAN statement, the transformation of a sacred day into one marked by bloodshed reflects a troubling decline in national security.
The cleric did not hide his frustration over what he described as repeated cycles of violence followed by routine official responses.
He stressed that Nigerians are increasingly weary of statements that do not translate into meaningful change.
Referencing the Plateau killings, Okoh insisted that citizens now expect visible and decisive action rather than temporary solutions that fail to address root causes.
He further questioned the worsening security situation, pointing out that communities are gradually losing confidence in their safety.
The Jos attack, he noted, is another example of how ordinary people have become vulnerable even within their own neighborhoods.
For CAN, the persistence of such tragedies highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of security strategies across Nigeria.
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A particularly alarming aspect of the Plateau killings, according to the association, is the reported use of uniforms resembling those of security personnel by the attackers.
Okoh warned that such tactics not only enable criminals to carry out their operations more effectively but also erode public trust in legitimate security forces.
He called on authorities to thoroughly investigate this development and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted without delay.
Beyond condemnation, CAN emphasized the importance of justice and accountability.
The association argued that failure to bring perpetrators to justice only emboldens further violence.
In the context of the Plateau killings, Okoh maintained that swift arrests and transparent prosecution would send a clear message that impunity will not be tolerated.
As Christians enter the solemn period of Holy Week, the CAN President also turned attention to safety measures within religious communities.
He encouraged churches to remain vigilant, especially during large gatherings such as Good Friday services, Stations of the Cross, and Easter vigils.
While acknowledging the importance of faith and prayer, he stressed that practical steps must be taken to safeguard worshippers.
He advised congregations to work closely with security agencies and local authorities, noting that collective vigilance can help prevent further tragedies.
The Jos attack, he said, serves as a reminder that security is a shared responsibility that requires both institutional and community-level efforts.
Despite acknowledging steps taken by the Plateau State Government, CAN believes more needs to be done to restore public confidence.
The association described the current moment as a critical juncture for Nigeria, one that demands bold decisions and sustained commitment to protecting lives.
The Plateau killings, in this regard, should not be seen as an isolated incident but as part of a broader challenge requiring urgent national attention.
In conclusion, CAN reiterated its call for immediate and decisive action.
The association urged the federal and state governments to rise above rhetoric and implement long-term solutions that address insecurity at its roots.
For many Nigerians, the memory of the Jos attack will remain painful, but CAN insists that it must also inspire a renewed determination to build a safer and more secure nation.