From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has asked Christian faithful to leverage the last week of the Lenten season to champion the cause of peace, unity and tolerance among Nigerians irrespective of religious, political and ethnic backgrounds.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, gave the charge in a statement to Christian communities in Nigeria on the occasion of the Palm Sunday which marks the beginning of the holy week that will culminate in Easter Sunday.
He said: “CAN extends warm greetings to all the faithful and people of goodwill across our nation. This sacred occasion invites us to reflect deeply on the life and mission of Jesus Christ, whose message of peace, humility, and sacrificial love remains as urgent today as it was over two thousand years ago.
“Palm Sunday commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed with palm branches and shouts of Hosanna!, a powerful symbol of peace, humility, and hope.
“This moment, as recorded in the Scriptures offer enduring lessons for our nation as we navigate these uncertain and challenging times. These lessons are especially pertinent as we are once again confronted with a painful reminder of the fragility of peace in our land.”
The CAN President made reference the recent wave of brutal killings in Plateau State, particularly the attacks of 4th April 2025, which claimed the lives of dozens of innocent citizens in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.
“These senseless acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life, but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace,” he said.
He thus called on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice, also urging the government, at all levels, to intensify efforts to secure all communities and prevent further bloodshed.
He insisted that the continued loss of lives in such tragic circumstances is simply unacceptable. “We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and the people of Plateau State.
“May God grant comfort to the grieving, healing to the wounded, and peace to every troubled heart. In times like these, we are reminded that true leadership is most vital when lives are at risk and communities are in distress
“As we lift our palm branches today, let them serve not only as symbols of worship but as signs of our collective resolve to work for a peaceful and united Nigeria.”