The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticized the Nigeria Police Force’s public communication regarding the reported abduction of worshippers in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, calling for greater empathy, responsibility, and professionalism in security-related statements.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association acknowledged the challenges of verifying security reports in remote areas but stressed that such difficulties should not justify lapses in handling sensitive information concerning mass abductions and threats to human life.
CAN expressed deep concern over what it described as the initial dismissal of reports on the incident before thorough verification, an action it said generated public confusion, heightened fear, and unfairly cast doubt on the credibility of nearly 170 worshippers, their families, clergy members, and eyewitnesses who raised the alarm.
“While efforts to prevent public panic are understandable, caution must not be conveyed in a manner that suggests denial or indifference to the suffering of citizens,” the statement read.
CAN emphasized that statements from senior security officials carry significant weight and must be guided by due diligence, empathy, and an awareness of their impact on public trust and social stability.
The association welcomed the police’s eventual confirmation of the incident and commended the Inspector-General of Police for deploying operational and intelligence assets to the area. However, it urged that such actions be matched with a more people-centered and disciplined approach to crisis communication.
CAN called on all security agencies to improve coordination, enhance verification processes, and treat credible reports from communities with the seriousness they deserve. It also warned against both dismissive responses and the spread of sensational misinformation.
The Christian body further urged governments at all levels to address the worsening insecurity across the country with renewed urgency, noting that repeated attacks continue to endanger lives, disrupt worship, and erode public confidence.
CAN appealed for the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted persons and prayed for their safe return, while calling on security agencies to intensify efforts toward their swift rescue.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to peace, justice, and the defense of human dignity, pledging continued solidarity with affected communities and constructive engagement with authorities in pursuit of lasting security.
