By Daniel Tyokua
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the spate of killings in Benue state, describing them as horrific and senseless.
In a statement on Monday by its president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN decried the massacre of over 200 lives in a series of coordinated attacks.
Okoh said the killings have inflicted immeasurable pain on families, devastated communities, and further entrenched the insecurity threatening the country.
The president expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved and pray for the peaceful response of the departed souls.
He insisted that there should be a thorough, transparent investigation and the swift prosecution of all those responsible.
According to him, Justice must prevail to break the grip of impunity fueling these atrocities.
Okoh, also appealed to the international community to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding trust in Benue State.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved and pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.
“For too long, the people of Benue have been subjected to recurrent assaults, often blamed on armed groups, without meaningful intervention or justice. This persistent failure to safeguard citizens and bring perpetrators to account has emboldened attackers and prolonged the cycle of violence.
“CAN calls on the Federal Government to act with urgency and resolve. We demand the immediate deployment of reinforced security personnel to protect vulnerable communities and, if necessary, the declaration of a state of emergency in the most affected areas.
“We further insist on a thorough, transparent investigation and the swift prosecution of all those responsible. Justice must prevail to break the grip of impunity fueling these atrocities. We also appeal to the international community to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding trust in Benue State.
“The Association remains unwavering in its commitment to defending the sanctity of life and advocating for the protection and dignity of all Nigerians. May peace be restored, and may justice roll down like water” Okoh said.
