Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Kwara Massacre: Northern CAN condemns ‘brutal’ killings, stands with Muslim Ummah

Kwara massacre

From Sola Ojo, Abuja

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has condemned the recent killings in Kwara State.

It described the attack as “brutal and inhumane,” while expressing solidarity with the Muslim Ummah and families of victims affected by the tragedy.

Scores were reportedly killed when gunmen attacked several communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of the state, leaving many others injured and causing widespread destruction of homes and farmlands.

The Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab in a statement on Saturday said the association was deeply saddened by the incident and joined the people of Kwara in mourning the dead.

“This attack is brutal, senseless and a tragic reminder of the deep security challenges facing our nation.

“We condemn it in the strongest terms and mourn with the families who have lost their loved ones,” Hayab said.

He noted that the association stood in solidarity with the Muslim Ummah, stressing that the victims were innocent citizens whose lives were cut short by violence.

“We stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters and with the entire people of Kwara State in this moment of grief.

“This pain is not selective; it is a collective national tragedy,” he added.

Rev. Hayab said such acts of violence undermine the core values of humanity and peaceful coexistence, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.

“This level of violence is an affront to human dignity and to the shared values of all Nigerians.

No religion teaches the taking of innocent lives. Our diversity must never become a reason for bloodshed,” he said.

The Northern CAN chairman also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and security agencies for their swift response, particularly the deployment of an Army battalion to the state under Operation Savannah Shield.

“We appreciate the prompt intervention of Mr President and the efforts of the security agencies. The deployment of troops is reassuring and shows commitment to restoring peace in the affected communities,” Hayab said.

However, he urged the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to address insecurity and prevent further attacks.

“Government must go beyond reactions. There is an urgent need for proactive intelligence, stronger collaboration among security agencies, and clear, actionable security policies.

The protection of citizens must remain the top priority of leadership,” he stated.

He further called on Nigerians to resist the temptation of religious or ethnic profiling, warning that such narratives only deepen division and worsen the crisis.

“This is not the time for blame games or religious sentiments. It is a time for unity, collective responsibility and national resolve against violence.

“We pray for the souls of the departed, healing for the injured, and comfort for the families. Northern CAN stands in solidarity with the people of Kwara State, the Muslim Ummah, and all Nigerians affected by insecurity. Together, we must remain resilient and committed to peace,” Hayab said.