There is Christian genocide in Nigeria, CAN insists

The Christian Association of Nigeria has reiterated that there is a Christian genocide in the country, citing years of unspeakable tragedy, persecution, and insecurity faced by Christians in the country.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated this on Tuesday at the ongoing Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council Meeting of the association in Jos, Plateau State.

He said, “Our presence in Jos today is not accidental. It is intentional, purposeful, and deeply symbolic. We are here as ambassadors of solidarity, compassion, and moral support. We are here to identify with our brothers and sisters across Plateau State and Northern Nigeria who have endured years of unspeakable tragedy—persecution, displacement, devastation, and unrelenting insecurity.

“It would be a grave injustice to deny the painful reality of what has transpired: lives brutally cut short, communities uprooted from their ancestral lands, families torn apart, churches razed, and hopes shattered. CAN has spoken clearly and courageously on this matter, and we stand unwaveringly by our position that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria,” he said.

The CAN expressed the association’s unwavering solidarity with the affected communities across the country.

The CAN president highlighted the plight of displaced Christians, citing a recent visit to Bokkos, where he met with displaced brethren, listened to their stories, prayed with them, and supported them with relief.

“We declare with one united voice: You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. The Body of Christ stands firmly with you,” Okoh emphasised.

The Christian body called for justice, accountability, and peace, urging the Federal Government and the international community to act decisively to halt the destruction of lives and the displacement of indigenous people, particularly in Christian-dominated communities across Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt.

The association also appealed to governments to resettle internally displaced persons back to their ancestral homes, warning that prolonged stays in IDP camps could escalate into a more devastating humanitarian crisis.

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, who declared the NEC meeting open, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring and sustaining peace across the state.

Represented by his deputy, Josephine Piyo, Mutfwang described the meeting as “symbolic” for Plateau State, which has long been regarded as the “Home of Peace and Tourism”.

Mutfwang equally expressed his administration’s firm commitment to healing divisions, securing rural areas, resettling displaced persons, and restoring dignity and livelihood to affected families.

“I want to appreciate CAN, both at the national and state levels, for your unwavering support, prayers, and partnership. Your counsel and collaboration continue to guide our steps as we build a safer, stronger, and more united Plateau,” he said.

The governor urged CAN leaders to reflect on how the Church can continue to shape national discourse, strengthen moral values, and foster unity among Nigerians.

“Nigeria needs the Church now more than ever,” Mutfwang emphasised, wishing the delegates fruitful deliberations and impactful resolutions.(Punch)