CAN DENOUNCES JOS KILLINGS, SEEKS INVESTIGATION
Read Time:2 Minute, 27 Second
By: Balogun Ibrahim
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the killing of residents during a Palm Sunday attack in Jos, calling the incident unacceptable and a stark indicator of the country’s deteriorating security situation.
In a statement on Monday, signed by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the group denounced the violence that occurred on March 29, 2026, in Angwan Rukuba, Gari Ya Waye area of Jos North.
Archbishop Okoh described the attack as a horrific blow to the Christian community, saying, “Palm Sunday is meant to be a day of peace, hope, and reflection. Instead, it became a day of bloodshed. Innocent Nigerians—men, women, and children—were hunted and killed in cold blood. This is not just tragic; it is unacceptable.”
According to CAN, the attackers reportedly stormed the community in large numbers, disguised in uniforms resembling those of security personnel, before opening fire on defenseless residents.
“Lives were lost within minutes. Families have been torn apart, and an entire community has been left traumatized,” the statement read.
CAN noted that the attack raises serious concerns about the safety of citizens and the ability of authorities to prevent such violence, particularly during major religious observances.
“We mourn and grieve, but we must also face the truth. How did we reach this point? How can people no longer feel safe in their own homes? How is it that even on a sacred day, communities remain vulnerable to such terror?” Archbishop Okoh asked.
The association emphasized that Nigerians are growing increasingly frustrated with recurring violence and empty official statements, urging concrete action against those responsible.
“Those behind this atrocity must be identified, arrested, and brought to justice swiftly and decisively. Anything less will only reinforce the perception that life in our country is no longer secure,” Archbishop Okoh stated.
He described reports that the attackers used fake military uniforms as particularly alarming, noting that such tactics erode public trust and require a thorough investigation.
“It strikes at the very core of public confidence and must be fully examined. Our security agencies must not only respond but anticipate and prevent these threats,” he said.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Plateau State Government, CAN emphasized the need for more sustainable security measures to protect lives and property.
“The people of Plateau, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve lasting security, not occasional reassurance,” the statement added.
The Christian body also urged worshippers to remain vigilant during Holy Week, advising churches to implement precautionary measures during gatherings.
“Be prayerful, but remain vigilant. Stay alert, cooperate with security agencies and local authorities, and watch out for one another,” Archbishop Okoh urged.
He called for national reflection and immediate action to break the cycle of violence.
“A nation cannot continue to bleed like this and hope to progress. We owe justice to the dead, protection to the living, and a future where no community wakes to gunfire on a sacred day,” he added.
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