Education, Religion

CAN Calls for Justice, Protection of Christians, and National Unity

Published by admin on October 9th, 2025.

CAN Calls for Justice, Protection of Christians, and National Unity

Responds to U.S. Claims of Religious Persecution in Nigeria

CAN

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has clarified its stance following international concerns about alleged widespread violence against Christians in the country. While confirming that many Christian communities have suffered deadly attacks, CAN emphasized that its mission is rooted in peace, justice, and truth—not in spreading fear or division.

This comes after U.S. Senator Ted Cruz made strong statements accusing Nigerian authorities of turning a blind eye to what he described as the “systematic persecution” of Christians. He cited staggering figures, claiming that over 52,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria since 2009, and more than 20,000 churches and schools destroyed. Cruz also announced plans to propose a bill—the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act—to push for sanctions on officials allegedly involved.

CAN’s Response to the Allegations

In a statement signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and released on Wednesday, the Christian body acknowledged that the situation in parts of Nigeria—particularly in the North—remains deeply troubling. Okoh confirmed that many Christian communities have suffered great losses due to violence, including the destruction of churches and lives.

“There’s no denying the pain our communities have felt,” Archbishop Okoh stated. “But our focus remains on justice and the protection of all Nigerians. We are committed to truth, peace, and national healing—not stirring division.”

Peaceful Advocacy, Not Provocation

Archbishop Okoh explained that CAN’s approach has always been rooted in peaceful advocacy. The organization, he said, avoids inflammatory language and instead chooses to work constructively, both locally and internationally.

CAN has taken several steps to raise awareness and push for justice, including:

Documenting incidents of religious violence

Communicating with the International Criminal Court (ICC)

Partnering with global Christian organizations like the World Evangelical Alliance and the Lausanne Movement

Despite these efforts, Okoh noted that the government’s response has often been too slow or insufficient.

Urgent Call to Action

The statement urged the Nigerian government and security agencies to take immediate and transparent steps to end the violence, ensure accountability, and protect all citizens equally, regardless of religion.

Archbishop Okoh also called on Christian leaders to remain united and wise in these trying times, emphasizing that the country’s fragile peace must not be taken for granted.

“True healing for Nigeria won’t come from blame or denial,” he said. “It will come from honesty, compassion, and the courage to rebuild trust. We must face our shared challenges together if we w

ant a peaceful and united future.”