The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has expressed solidarity with Benue State, assuring its people and government that their sorrow is shared across the region.
The message was delivered during a condolence visit to Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, following renewed violent attacks in the state.
The delegation, made up of bishops, pastors, and leaders from multiple Christian denominations, was led by Rev. J.J. Hayab.
Their presence signaled a united Christian front in grief and concern for the victims of the attacks.
The visit came shortly after Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, visited Benue to commiserate with those affected and express the federal government’s concern.
An emotional Governor Alia described the occasion as both spiritually uplifting and emotionally grounding.
“You risked your lives to be here tonight. As I shook hands with each of you, I felt warmth, I felt love,” Alia said.
“This is what Christianity is: ‘I am because you are, and you are because I am.’” He stated.
He stressed that the solidarity visits, including that of the First Lady and CAN, reaffirmed that Benue is not isolated in its struggle. The governor also called on Christian leaders to step beyond religious roles and become more actively involved in shaping the nation’s policies and governance.
“Until you get to the formula table, you won’t understand the equation,” he said, urging the clergy to become active participants in Nigeria’s political and social transformation.
Governor Alia further noted that despite the difficult times, certain federal policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, were necessary steps to stabilize the economy.
In his address, Hayab clarified that their mission was deeply personal, not just a routine act of condolence.
“We didn’t just want to issue statements from afar. We came to tell you face-to-face: you are not alone.
“When terrorists kill sleeping children, women and students, don’t call them herdsmen. That is not who herdsmen are. Call them what they are - criminals,” he said.
Rev. Hayab also warned of the broader implications of the crisis, noting that continued violence in Benue, Nigeria’s food-producing heartland, could severely threaten the nation’s food supply.
Also speaking at the gathering, Rev. Jonathan Terwase Ugbede, Vice-Chairman of CAN in Benue, thanked the visiting delegation and lauded Governor Alia’s leadership.
“Here in Benue, no civil servant is owed current salaries. Pensioners are rejoicing. Our governor is a promise keeper, a talk-and-do leader,” he remarked.
He further noted that the governor’s name, Iormem meaning “the people have rested” is beginning to reflect in his governance despite ongoing security concerns.
The delegation includes clerics from various Christian blocs, including Catholic, Baptist, ECWA, PECAN, and White Garment churches.
