The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the deadly attack on a church crusade in Eda Oniyo, Ekiti State, where gunmen reportedly killed a pastor and abducted several worshippers during an open-air programme.
Reacting to the incident on Wednesday, CAN described the attack as shocking, barbaric and a direct assault on human life and freedom of worship.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the Christian body said the worshippers had gathered peacefully to commune with God before the attackers struck.
“This is not just an attack on a church; it is a brutal assault on our shared humanity and the sanctity of life,” CAN stated.
The association expressed sympathy with the family of the slain pastor and the abducted worshippers, calling on security agencies to ensure their immediate rescue.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been taken, and we call for their immediate and safe release,” the statement added.
CAN warned that the Ekiti attack was part of a disturbing wave of insecurity spreading across parts of the country, recalling recent attacks and abductions in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State involving clerics, their families and other residents.
According to the association, Nigerians must not accept attacks on worship centres as normal.
“No place of worship should become a hunting ground for criminals,” CAN declared.
The Christian body urged the Federal Government and security agencies to move swiftly against those behind the attack and bring them to justice without delay.
It also called for increased security presence in vulnerable rural communities to prevent further bloodshed and kidnappings.
“The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government. Authorities must act swiftly, decisively and transparently,” the statement said.
CAN further lamented what it described as a growing disregard for human life and moral values in the country.
“The killing of a pastor and the abduction of worshippers gathered to serve their Creator is deeply troubling,” it stressed.
The association prayed for God’s comfort for the bereaved families and safe return of those still in captivity.
