The Christian Association of Nigerian Americans (CANAN USA) has backed Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye’s call for the Federal Government to identify, investigate and prosecute sponsors and financiers of terrorism, saying dismantling the entire terror network is essential to ending insecurity in Nigeria.
The association stated this in a press release issued following the U.S.–Nigeria Faith Heroes Award held in Washington, D.C., where Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), called for renewed commitment to combating terrorism while commending the United States Government for supporting Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts.
According to the statement, Adeboye acknowledged the support of the United States but stressed that Nigeria’s fight against terrorism was far from over. CANAN quoted the cleric as saying, “While I deeply appreciate the support of the United States Government, the mission is far from over. Innocent Nigerians continue to be killed almost daily by terrorist groups.”
The association said Adeboye also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to intensify efforts to dismantle terrorist networks by targeting not only those carrying out attacks but also those behind their operations.
The association further recalled Adeboye’s appeal for national unity, noting that he reflected on a time when Christians, Muslims and adherents of traditional religions lived peacefully together and freely practised their faith. It said the cleric described the current wave of religious violence and intolerance as a departure from those ideals and urged Nigerians to work together to restore peace and mutual respect.
CANAN also welcomed the continued counterterrorism cooperation between Nigeria and the United States and commended Nigerian security and intelligence agencies over the reported arrest of suspected commanders of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The association urged that all terrorism-related prosecutions be conducted in accordance with the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, stressing that due process remains critical to securing justice for victims.
“Due process, accountability, and appropriate punishment for those found guilty are essential to justice for victims and to deterring future acts of terrorism,” the statement said.
CANAN also endorsed the ongoing constitutional reforms advancing the establishment of State Police, describing the initiative as an important step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture. It, however, called for the inclusion of credible civil society representatives in oversight structures to enhance transparency, accountability, public confidence and respect for human rights.
The association further expressed concern over reports that some captured terrorism suspects have been reintegrated into society without transparent judicial processes, urging the Federal Government to ensure that all persons accused of terrorism are handled in accordance with the rule of law.
“Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. Upholding due process honours the memory of victims, strengthens public confidence in the justice system, and discourages future acts of violent extremism,” the statement added.
