Rev. Dr. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of Northern CAN
Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has decried the escalating insecurity across the country, warning that recent attacks are part of a deliberate plot to further destabilise Nigeria.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, expressed deep sorrow over the attack on the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Kwara State, where worshippers were killed and several abducted.
He also condemned the killing of a senior military officer, a General, by ISWAP terrorists in Borno State, as well as the abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi State.
Rev. Hayab said the tragedies were painful reminders of the grave security challenges confronting citizens and security personnel.
He noted that the grief and trauma experienced by bereaved families and those whose children remain in captivity were “beyond measure,” adding that the association is praying for comfort, healing, and the safe return of all abducted persons.
While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices, Northern CAN cautioned that the resurgence of terror-related attacks appears designed to weaken national stability.
The association urged the military not to allow these incidents to dampen their morale but to intensify counter-terrorism operations.
Rev. Hayab also called on the new service chiefs to demonstrate renewed determination in confronting insurgents, bandits, and other criminal groups threatening peace across the country.
He appealed to the Federal Government to scale up efforts to secure schools, worship centres, and vulnerable communities, stressing that Nigerians expect swift action to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators of the attacks.
Northern CAN described the incidents as “unacceptable acts of evil” that must be stopped. It further called for stronger collaboration between security agencies, state governments, and community structures to avert future tragedies and restore public confidence.
