Table of Contents
- Appeal for Resettlement
- Historic Meeting in Jos
- Rev. Dr. Amos M. Mohzo's Statement
- Call for Inclusivity
- Rev. Joseph John Hayab's Remarks
- Commitment to Peace and Unity
- Commemoration and Prayers
Northern Christian leaders have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action regarding the resettlement of displaced persons in Benue, Plateau, and Borno States, who have been living in camps both domestically and abroad, years after violent attacks forced them from their ancestral homes.
This appeal was made in Jos, Plateau State, during a significant meeting with the President, which the clerics characterized as a renewed chance to highlight the struggles of displaced communities in Northern Nigeria.
The Christian leaders were in Jos to participate in the funeral of Mama Lydia Yilwata, the mother of Prof. Nentawe Yilwata, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking on behalf of the Christian leaders, Rev. Dr. Amos M. Mohzo, President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) and Chairman of the Heads of Denominational Leaders on the Plateau, expressed concern that over 200,000 individuals from Gwoza in Borno State continue to suffer in refugee camps in Cameroon and Chad.
He stated, “We respectfully appeal to you, Mr. President, to assist in bringing them back home. Similarly, we are calling for support for displaced communities in Plateau and Benue States. Rebuilding their livelihoods and homes will enable them to lead productive lives.”
He commended the President’s efforts in enhancing national security and supporting the establishment of state police, emphasizing the importance of resettling displaced families for peace and stability in the North.
Mohzo also expressed appreciation for the President’s commitment to inclusivity in governance, highlighting key appointments of Northern Christians, such as Senator George Akume as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff, and Prof. Nentawe Yilwata as National Chairman of the APC.
He further urged President Tinubu to expand the representation of Christians in his cabinet and other significant positions of authority across the country.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the meeting, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Northern Nigeria, reinforced the clerics’ appeal, emphasizing the urgent need for the President to prioritize resettlement and reconstruction to restore dignity to displaced families.
Hayab, who led the Northern CAN delegation, called on President Tinubu to initiate a Special Presidential Reconstruction Initiative aimed at rebuilding homes, restoring livelihoods, and providing social infrastructure for displaced persons who have endured immense hardship for far too long.
He stated, “Our people cannot continue to live in camps while their ancestral homes have been taken over. We are imploring Mr. President to act promptly so that these Nigerians can return home and lead meaningful lives once again.”
Hayab reaffirmed the commitment of Northern Christian leaders to peace and national unity, assuring the President of their support for people-oriented policies that will benefit not just the North, but the entire country.
According to him, CAN will continue to serve as a moral voice of conscience, holding the government accountable, advocating for justice, and promoting policies that prioritize humanity.
The clerics also took the opportunity to express their condolences to Prof. Yilwata, the Ngas nation, and all the people of Plateau State, praying for God's strength to help them cope with their loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main appeal made by the Northern Christian leaders?
The main appeal is for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently assist in the resettlement of displaced persons in Benue, Plateau, and Borno States who are still in camps years after being forced from their homes due to violent attacks.
What initiatives are being called for to support displaced communities?
The leaders are calling for a Special Presidential Reconstruction Initiative to rebuild homes, restore livelihoods, and provide essential social infrastructure for displaced persons.
What is the significance of the meeting in Jos?
The meeting in Jos was significant as it provided a renewed opportunity for the Christian leaders to address the plight of displaced communities directly with the President, highlighting their urgent needs and concerns.
