Taiwo Popoola
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has felicitated with Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the successful completion of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.
CAN noted that the spiritual activities were significant and rewarding to every faithful, especially those who embrace the teachings as instructed in the Holy Books.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Rev. John Joseph Hayab and Bishop Mohammed Naga, the Chairman and the Secretary, respectively, of Northern CAN, they also expressed grief and sorrow as Nigerians mourn the killing of 16 travelers in Uromi, Edo State.
According to the statement, “The pain and anguish their families and loved ones must endure are unbearable, and we can only imagine the depth of their suffering. May God grant them comfort, strength, and solace during these darkest of times.
“This heinous act of violence is a stain on our collective humanity, and CAN condemns it in the strongest terms. The brutal taking of innocent lives is a tragedy that should unite us all in our outrage and our determination to ensure that justice is served.
“As Christians, we stand in solidarity with their families, recognizing that this act of violence is not only an attack on any region but on our shared humanity.”
CAN prayed for peace and calm to be restored and for an end to violence and bloodshed in the nation.
“We weep with you, we mourn with you, and we pray with you for an end to this senseless violence,” the statement added.
CAN said, “To the immediate families and relatives of the victims, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences.
“We can only imagine the depth of your pain and grief, and we pray that God grants you the strength and courage to bear this unbearable loss. May the memories of your loved ones be a blessing to you, and may their sacrifice not be in vain.”
CAN appealed to those calling for a counterreaction to reconsider their actions, saying that revenge was not a solution but a recipe for further chaos and destruction.
The statement condemned what it called “stereotypes and generalizations” that seek to demonize Nigerians based on the actions of a few, stressing that Nigerians must rise in unison to reject such stereotypes and generalizations, whether based on religious, ethnic, or regional grounds.
The statement observed, “Such divisive rhetoric only fuels further violence and mistrust.
“Instead, we must work towards a future where every Nigerian can live without fear of violence or persecution, regardless of their location within the federation.”
CAN tasks the security agencies, the government of Edo State, and the Federal Government to ensure diligence in investigating this heinous crime and prosecuting those involved, stressing that they must take immediate and transparent action to bring the perpetrators to justice.
