From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned constant attacks in Benue, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara and parts of Sokoto states, saying ethnic cleansing of Christian indigenous communities must be stopped.
Its National President, Bishop Daniel, made the demand in Makurdi, Benue State, when he donated relief materials for the victims of the recent attacks in the state to cushion the effect of their suffering.
Okoh, who expressed pains over the sufferings of the victims, said no excuse can be enough for the continued massive loss of lives and property in Nigeria and called on security agencies to change strategy and improve on commitment towards ending the killings.
Making the donation at the CAN secretariat in Makurdi, Bishop Okoh, who condemned the incessant attacks on the people of the state, expressed dismay over the spate of killings across the state and country, noting that the national leadership of CAN was touched by their plight.
The CAN president, who was represented by his deputy, Rev. Stephen Panya, commiserated with Governor Hyacinth Alia, the government and people of the state and appreciated the governor’s efforts in ensuring that complete peace was restored and the displaced victims also returned to their various destinations to continue with their farm activities.
He lamented that each time efforts were made to bring peace, the enemy would resurface, changing tactics and target, and that has led to continuous wanton loss of lives and property.
He lamented that despite the efforts of the government, no concrete solution has been found by the authorities whose duty is to protect lives and property.
He expressed belief that through prayers even authorities that are adamant would come to their aid.
He called on the Federal Government to take deliberate measures to stop the killings and constant attack in Benue, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara and parts of Sokoto states, revealing that attacks on the people was to test the will and capacity of the government to stop it.
He expressed confidence in God to intervene for His people, vowing that it would not go well with the wicked people.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Agbo Oloko, expressed delight over the relief materials and noted that most of the communities had been deserted even as churches, hospitals and schools in the affected areas had been closed down informally.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Affairs, King David Ajav, also expressed gratitude for the relief materials, saying the gesture was a demonstration of love, care and hope for the victims.
The Vice Chairman of CAN in Benue State, Rev Jonathan Terwase Ugbede, noted that the relief materials would go a long way in alleviating the pains of the victims of the recent attacks in Ukum, Kwande and Otukpo local government areas.
Earlier in the day, the CAN President had paid a visit to Governor Alia, but was received by the Deputy Governor, Sam Ode. He commiserated with the government and people of the state over the recent attacks and killings of the people of the state.