From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Rev. Fr. Dr. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of CAN, Plateau State, who died on Saturday, June 15, 2025, following a brief illness after a road accident.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, described Fr. Lubo’s departure as a profound loss to the Christian community and Nigeria.
“He was not only a dedicated colleague but also a friend whose wisdom, humility, and warmth left a lasting imprint on my life. As a CAN leader, he served with integrity and deep compassion.
“His advocacy for justice and support for national health initiatives, such as immunisation and polio eradication, made a significant impact. Truly, his life exemplified the transformative power of unity, love, and service.
“At this point, CAN stands with Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the government and people of Plateau State, the Catholic Church, the Plateau State CAN chapter, and the family of Fr. Lubo in mourning this irreplaceable loss. We also extend our heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved him, praying that God will grant comfort and strength during this time of grief,” Okoh said.
Meanwhile, the CAN President has condemned the horrific wave of violence that recently swept through Benue State, resulting in the tragic loss of over 200 lives in a series of coordinated attacks.
CAN noted that the senseless killings have inflicted immeasurable pain on families, devastated communities, and further entrenched the insecurity threatening Nigeria as a nation.
“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,” Okoh stated.
The CAN President called on the Federal Government to act with urgency and resolve the challenge, demanding 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 fuelling these atrocities. We also appeal to the international community to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding trust in Benue State,” he added.
Okoh said that CAN remains unwavering in its commitment to defending the sanctity of life and advocating for the protection and dignity of all Nigerians.