Fresh Fears As CAN Raises Alarm On Renewed Persecution Of Christians In Nigeria

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has raised serious concerns over the renewed wave of religious tension and violence across the country, warning that Christian communities remain under sustained threat of attacks.

According to Ireporter Online, CAN, in a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, urged the Federal Government and security agencies to take swift and impartial action to protect all citizens, particularly Christians in the northern parts of Nigeria.

Okoh noted that several Christian communities have endured devastating assaults, leading to loss of lives and the destruction of worship centres. He described these tragedies as painful reminders of the urgent need for decisive government intervention to safeguard every Nigerian, regardless of religion or region.

The development comes amid growing international concern, with several American political figures raising alarm over alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria. U.S. Senator Ted Cruz recently introduced a bill aimed at protecting what he described as “persecuted Christians” in the country. Similarly, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging the U.S. government to take firm diplomatic measures against Nigeria over what he called “systematic persecution and slaughter of Christians.”

Also weighing in, American talk show host Bill Maher accused terror groups of “systematically exterminating” Christians in Nigeria.

CAN explained that it has consistently drawn global attention to the plight of Christians through petitions to international bodies such as the International Criminal Court (ICC) and through engagements with global Christian organisations, including the World Evangelical Alliance and the Lausanne Movement.

However, Archbishop Okoh lamented that despite years of advocacy, the cries for justice and protection are “too often met with delay or denial.” He urged the government to act with urgency and transparency to end the killings and bring perpetrators to justice, stressing that the pain of affected families should not be reduced to mere statistics.

While acknowledging ongoing security interventions, CAN called for more balanced and intensified efforts across all regions. It also appealed to Christian leaders to respond with unity, wisdom, and restraint, especially during this period of heightened tension.

Archbishop Okoh emphasised that national healing can only be achieved through truth and courage, stating that “Nigeria’s recovery will not come from denial or blame, but from the courage to face our collective failures, grieve together, and rebuild trust among our communities.”

He concluded that only through honesty and reconciliation can the nation move beyond its wounds and embrace lasting peace.