The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has commended the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and urged Nigerians to embrace compassion, forgiveness, and mutual respect to build a Nigeria where every life is cherished and protected.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation with Muslim leaders to foster interfaith initiatives that would help build a stronger nation.
He said, “On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Muslim brothers and sisters on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr. This festival marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
As Christians, we deeply resonate with these practices, sharing with our Muslim neighbours the values of prayer, fasting, charity, and community. These common principles form the foundation of our unity and offer hope for a stronger, more harmonious Nigeria.”
Okoh said that while CAN acknowledges the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, it cannot ignore the pressing challenges confronting the country, such as rampant kidnappings and violence in communities. Economic difficulties, including soaring inflation and widespread unemployment, place immense burdens on countless families.
Okoh observed that social unrest, fueled by these and other grievances, continues to test Nigeria’s resilience.
He said, “It is within this troubled context that we must address a recent and devastating incident. A few days ago, sixteen hunters traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano to mark Eid-el-Fitr were brutally murdered by a mob in Uromi, Edo State. Mistaken for kidnappers due to the traditional hunting tools they carried, these innocent men suffered a horrific fate—beaten and burned alive in an act of mob violence, denied any chance of due process.”
The CAN President stated that this extrajudicial killing is a grievous violation of human rights and a chilling reminder of the dangers of lawlessness.
He said, “We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of these hunters, who now mourn the loss of their loved ones taken in such a senseless and brutal manner. Our thoughts are also with all families affected by recent acts of violence and injustice across Nigeria. These tragedies inflict profound pain and could erode trust in our legal system, highlighting the urgent need for effective law enforcement and the upholding of the rule of law. The government must act decisively to address these failures and ensure justice is served.”
Okoh stressed that in the face of such challenges, Nigerians must not succumb to despair but rather unite for peace and security.
“I urge all Nigerians to practice charity, support those in need, and stand together against violence and division. Specifically, we call on the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the killing of the sixteen hunters and ensure the perpetrators face justice. Leaders at all levels must also promote understanding and reject mob actions,” he added.
