The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the attack on the Christ Apostolic Church at Eruku in Kwara state, where worshipers were killed and others abducted during a prayer meeting.
In a statement issued by the president of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Thursday, expressed sadness over the incident.
It said the association stand in solidarity with the families of those who loss their loved ones and Eruku people.
The association calls for swift rescue of abducted worshippers and justice for perpetrators, urging transparent investigation and support for affected families
It emphasized the need for stronger protection of places of worship and long-term national security strategy.
CAN also appeals for calm and constructive engagement to ensure justice, healing, and peace.
The statement reads, “We stand in solidarity with the families who lost loved ones, with those injured, with the abducted, and with the entire Eruku community in their moment of grief. Their pain is our collective pain, and their trauma is one that no community of faith should ever be forced to endure.
“This assault on peaceful citizens gathered for worship is a heartbreaking reminder of the growing insecurity facing Christian communities across the country.
“We note with deep concern that the Eruku attack adds to a pattern of repeated assaults on Christian populations in vulnerable regions, an issue CAN has consistently raised before government authorities and the international community. Although official responses have often dismissed fears of targeted violence, the frequency and intensity of these incidents continue to provoke legitimate national and global alarm.
“We call on the security agencies to move swiftly to rescue the abducted worshippers and to bring the perpetrators to justice. A transparent and credible investigation is essential to reveal how this attack happened, identify lapses in security, and restore public confidence. The affected families also require immediate medical, emotional and material support at this very difficult time.
“We emphasise the urgent need for stronger protection of places of worship, especially in areas repeatedly exposed to violent threats. This tragedy further highlights the importance of a long-term national security strategy capable of confronting terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent extremism in a way that guarantees safety and dignity for all Nigerians, irrespective of their faith”
