CAN Condemns Kwara Church Attack, Calls for Swift Rescue of Abducted Worshippers
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the recent attack on the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, describing it as a tragic reminder of the growing insecurity facing religious communities across the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh expressed deep sadness over the incident, which occurred during a Tuesday evening prayer service, leading to the death and abduction of several worshippers. He called on security agencies to act quickly to rescue the abducted individuals and to conduct a transparent investigation into the attack.
“On behalf of the national leadership of CAN, I express sadness over this violent assault on worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State. Families are grieving, and the community is traumatized. Their pain is our collective pain, and no community of faith should be forced to endure such trauma,” Okoh said.
According to reports, at least three worshippers were killed during the attack, while several others were abducted after suspected bandits stormed the church, firing shots and targeting worshippers. The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, later confirmed that one victim died during the attack and another body was found in a nearby bush.
Archbishop Okoh highlighted that the Eruku attack fits a disturbing pattern of repeated assaults on Christian communities in vulnerable regions. He noted that despite longstanding concerns, authorities have often downplayed the risks of targeted violence.
“This incident underscores the urgent need for stronger protection of places of worship. A long-term national security strategy is essential to confront terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism, ensuring the safety and dignity of all Nigerians, regardless of faith,” he said.
CAN also urged traditional and religious leaders to maintain calm, prevent reprisal attacks, and focus on justice and healing through lawful means. Archbishop Okoh stressed that the organization would continue monitoring the situation and work with authorities to ensure that victims receive justice and that Christian communities across Nigeria are better protected.
The association’s statement called for swift action from security agencies to rescue the abducted worshippers and bring the perpetrators to justice, emphasising that transparency and accountability are crucial to restoring public confidence.
