The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has expressed shock over the attack on a church gathering in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, where gunmen reportedly killed a pastor and abducted several worshippers during an open-air crusade.
CAN, in a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the incident as disturbing.
The apex Christian body condemned the attack, and urged the government to take immediate action to stop further attacks and bring the perpetrators to book.
“This is not just an attack on a church; it is a brutal assault on our shared humanity and the sanctity of life,” the statement added.
CAN extended its condolences to the family of the slain pastor, saying it stands in full solidarity with the victims and the entire Christian community in Ekiti State.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been taken, and we call for their immediate and safe release,” it said.
“This latest tragedy comes amid a disturbing pattern of attacks. Only recently, gunmen struck communities in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting residents including clergy, their families, and other community members. These repeated incidents underscore a deepening security crisis that can no longer be ignored,” it went on.
“This attack further heightens concerns about the safety of lives and the protection of communities. No one should have to live in fear, and no place of worship must ever become a hunting ground for criminals.
“We must be unequivocal: the protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of government. We call on the authorities and security agencies to act swiftly, decisively, and transparently.
“Those responsible for this atrocity must be apprehended and brought to justice without delay. Every necessary effort must be made to rescue those abducted unharmed.
“We also urge the government to immediately strengthen security presence, especially in vulnerable and rural communities, and to deploy proactive intelligence measures to prevent further attacks.
“At the same time, we must all speak out firmly. The killing of a Pastor and the abduction of worshippers gathered to commune with their Creator is deeply troubling. It reflects a grave disregard for life, for faith, and for the moral fabric of our society.
“We have a duty to communicate these concerns clearly, firmly, and without equivocation to the appropriate authorities. Nigeria must not normalise the killing of worshippers or the abduction of innocent citizens in places of refuge.”
