CAN Urges Swift Rescue of Worshippers Abducted in Eruku Church Attack

Table of Contents

1. Statement from CAN
2. Solidarity with Affected Families
3. Concerns Over Repeated Attacks
4. Call to Action for Security Agencies
5. Need for Stronger Protection
6. Role of Community Leaders
7. Monitoring Developments

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed its sorrow over the violent assault on the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State.

This attack resulted in the deaths of several worshippers, while others were kidnapped during a prayer service.

In a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the President of CAN, the organization stated that the attack on peaceful citizens gathered for worship serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the escalating insecurity faced by Christian communities throughout the nation.

The statement read, “We stand in solidarity with the families who have lost loved ones, with those who were injured, with the abducted individuals, and with the entire Eruku community during this time of grief. Their pain is our collective pain, and their trauma is one that no faith community should ever have to endure.

“We express deep concern that the Eruku attack is part of a troubling trend of repeated assaults on Christian populations in vulnerable areas, an issue that CAN has consistently brought to the attention of government authorities and the international community.

“Despite official responses often downplaying concerns about targeted violence, the frequency and severity of these incidents continue to raise legitimate national and global alarm.

“We urge security agencies to act quickly to rescue the abducted worshippers and to bring the perpetrators to justice. A transparent and thorough investigation is crucial to uncover how this attack occurred, identify security lapses, and restore public confidence. The affected families also require immediate medical, emotional, and material support during this challenging time.

“We stress the urgent need for enhanced protection of places of worship, particularly in regions frequently subjected to violent threats. This tragedy underscores the necessity of a comprehensive national security strategy capable of addressing terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violent extremism in a manner that ensures safety and dignity for all Nigerians, regardless of their faith.

“We appeal to religious, traditional, and community leaders to help maintain peace and prevent any form of retaliation. Our collective focus must remain on justice, healing, and peace, pursued through lawful and constructive means.

“We will continue to closely monitor developments and engage with authorities and partners to ensure that the victims of the Eruku attack receive justice and that Christian communities across Nigeria are better protected.”