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From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), North, has urged Nigerian leaders to use the Christmas season as a turning point for national renewal, justice and lasting security.
Chairman, Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab and Secretary General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, in a Christmas message noted that the country cannot continue to suffer under the weight of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
The association called on the Federal Government to move beyond rhetoric by conducting a thorough and transparent investigation into the sponsors and financiers of terrorism across the country.
According to CAN, sustainable peace will remain unattainable unless those funding and enabling violent crimes are identified, exposed and brought to justice.
“Christmas goes beyond celebration. It offers an opportunity for sober reflection on the moral conscience of the nation and the social direction of our country.
“It calls the nation to peace, justice, compassion and respect for the sanctity of human life.”
Northern CAN acknowledged the severe economic and social hardships confronting many Nigerians while commending individuals, faith-based organisations and community leaders who provided palliatives and support to vulnerable citizens during the festive season.
Such acts, it said, reflected enduring values of love, compassion and shared responsibility.
On security, the association praised the Armed Forces and sister security agencies for their sacrifices in defending lives and property, urging them to remain steadfast until insecurity is decisively addressed.
“The continued existence of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping has caused immense pain to individuals, families and communities, leaving scars that many may never fully recover from.” Northern CAN also welcomed the Federal Government’s recent designation of kidnappers, bandits and violent criminal groups as terrorists, describing the move as a significant step that strengthens the national security framework and demonstrates seriousness in tackling insecurity.
The association applauded Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, for granting clemency to Sunday Jackson, a Christian farmer who was sentenced to death following a violent attack on his farm. It described his earlier conviction as a miscarriage of justice and said the governor’s intervention has restored public confidence in fairness and the rule of law.
“The grant of clemency brings relief and affirms the principle that self-defence in the face of mortal danger should not be criminalised, while terrorists and their advocates walk freely in our society.”
The association called on leaders at all levels to uphold justice, equity and the rule of law, while urging Nigerians to remain law-abiding, committed to peaceful coexistence and national unity. “As the nation celebrates Christmas, let us support our leaders, pray for the healing of our land and work collectively for a safer, more just and more united Nigeria.”
