The Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has decried the recurring surge in insecurity nationwide following separate violent incidents in Kwara, Borno and Kebbi States.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, described the situations as distressing reminders of the deteriorating security conditions affecting citizens and security operatives.
He lamented the assault on a Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, in Kwara State, where worshippers were killed and many taken away, the murder of a senior military officer, a General, by ISWAP fighters in Borno State, and the kidnapping of schoolgirls in Kebbi State.
Rev. Hayab said the association remains in firm solidarity with the bereaved families and communities, noting that the grief of losing loved ones or having children held hostage is unbearable.
He prayed for strength for the mourning families, recovery for the wounded and the safe release of all abducted victims.
While praising the Nigerian Armed Forces for their commitment, Hayab cautioned that the renewed terror incidents seem like a deliberate ploy to destabilise the country. He urged military personnel not to allow the events to dampen their morale.
He also urged the new service chiefs to intensify their missions and show stronger resolve in defeating insurgents, bandits and other criminal elements across the country.
Hayab appealed to the Federal Government to scale up measures to protect schools, worship centres and other exposed places, stressing that Nigerians expect firm action to ensure those responsible for these attacks are prosecuted.
Describing the incidents as intolerable acts of wickedness, Northern CAN sought greater cooperation between security agencies, state authorities and local communities to prevent further tragedies.
