The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the international community to support the federal government in ending the violent massacres in Benue State.
In a stark condemnation of the recent wave of coordinated attacks that claimed over 200 lives, CAN is demanding immediate and reinforced security measures in the affected areas.
Speaking in a statement issued on Monday, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh lamented the “senseless killings” that have caused profound suffering, fractured communities, and deepened the overall insecurity in Benue. “These senseless killings have inflicted immeasurable pain on families, devastated communities, and further entrenched the insecurity threatening our nation. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved and pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls,” he said.
Okoh criticized the long-standing failure to safeguard citizens and bring perpetrators to justice, arguing that this persistent inaction has emboldened attackers and perpetuated the cycle of violence.
CAN has urged the Federal Government to take the following urgent actions, one of which is it deploy reinforced security personnel immediately to protect vulnerable communities, declare a state of emergency in the most severely affected areas, onduct a thorough and transparent investigation with swift prosecution of all involved in these atrocities.
Emphasizing the need for external support, Okoh appealed to the international community to lend its support to efforts aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding trust in Benue State. “The Christian Association of Nigeria remains unwavering in its commitment to defending the sanctity of life and advocating for the protection and dignity of all Nigerians. May peace be restored, and may justice roll down like waters,” he declared.
The call for international intervention comes as Benue State continues to grapple with recurring violence, with many calling for a sustainable solution to end the cycle of brutality and impunity that has plagued the region.