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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the Palm Sunday Killings by some gunmen that took place in Angwan Rukuba, Gari Ya Waye area of Jos North, Plateau State.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement, on Monday, expressed sadness that Palm Sunday that was meant to be a day of peace, hope, reflection became a day of bloodshed.
“Suddenly, armed men in significant numbers moved into a civilian community, disguised in uniforms resembling those of security forces, and opened fire on defenceless people. Lives were cut short in minutes. Families have been shattered. A community has been traumatised. Innocent Nigerians; men, women and children were hunted and killed in cold blood. Let us be clear: this is not just tragic; it is unacceptable.
“Nigerians are tired of mourning. Nigerians are tired of statements. Nigerians want to see action. Those responsible for this atrocity must be found, arrested and made to face justice; swiftly and decisively. Anything less will only deepen the sense that life in our country is no longer protected.
“The use of fake military uniforms by these attackers is particularly alarming. It strikes at the very heart of public trust and must be thoroughly investigated. Our security institutions must not only respond; they must stay ahead of these threats.”
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The CAN President, however, acknowledge the efforts of the Plateau State Government so far. “But let it be said clearly: temporary measures are not enough. The people of Plateau, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve lasting security, not periodic reassurance.
“To our Christian faithful across the nation, I speak to you as we walk through this solemn Holy Week. Be prayerful, but also be vigilant. As you prepare for Good Friday solemnities and the Stations of the Cross (in some denominations), and as churches gather for Easter Eve vigils and night services, take deliberate steps to protect yourselves and your congregations. Stay alert. Work with security agencies and local authorities. Look out for one another.
“Faith must remain strong, but it must also be paired with wisdom. We will not allow fear to silence our worship. But neither will we ignore the dangers around us. Holy Week reminds us that light will always overcome darkness. Yet let us be honest, Nigeria is passing through a dark and painful moment. This must be a turning point.
“A nation cannot keep bleeding like this and expect to move forward. We owe the dead justice. We owe the living protection. And we owe our future a country where no community wakes up to gunfire on a sacred day,” he said.
