Following a spate of deadly violence in Benue State that has reportedly claimed over 200 lives, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to take immediate action, including deploying more security personnel and declaring a state of emergency in severely impacted areas.
The association’s president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, issued the appeal in a public statement on Monday, condemning the attacks and extending condolences to the bereaved.
“These massacres have left families broken and communities in ruins,” Okoh said. “It is imperative that the government steps up its responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of citizens.”
CAN is demanding a full investigation into the killings and justice for the victims, saying impunity has emboldened violent actors in the region.
“Benue has long been plagued by violence, often carried out by armed groups,” the statement noted. “Despite persistent pleas for help, government intervention has fallen short, allowing a pattern of unchecked brutality.”
Okoh urged global partners to support local peace initiatives and help rebuild the social fabric torn apart by years of insecurity.
Reaffirming the association’s commitment to human dignity and national unity, he said: “We must not accept this as normal. Every Nigerian life matters, and our collective silence must end.”
Meanwhile, CAN also mourned the death of Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, its Plateau State Chairman, who died on 15 June after a brief illness. Archbishop Okoh hailed Lubo’s service and urged Nigerians to honour his memory by championing peace, justice, and reconciliation.
