Gladness Gideon
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has strongly condemned the recent wave of brutal killings in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing the attacks as inhumane and a threat to national unity.
In a statement released on Tuesday from Kaduna, the group, led by Rev. Yakubu Pam, expressed deep sorrow and outrage over what it called “senseless and barbaric” acts of violence that have taken the lives of innocent and peace-loving citizens.
“We are deeply saddened and outraged by the senseless and barbaric attacks that have claimed the lives of innocent and peace-loving citizens,” the statement read. “These repeated acts of violence are not only a violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life, but they are also a direct threat to the peace and unity of our state and the nation at large.”
Northern CAN called on security agencies to act swiftly to identify, apprehend, and prosecute the perpetrators, stressing that justice must be served to deter future attacks.
“We call on security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” Rev. Pam stated. “We also urge the government at all levels to take proactive steps to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further loss of lives.”
The association emphasized the need for a unified response from all stakeholders, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, community-based organizations, and security agencies, to put an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued Plateau State for years.
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“The time has come for all stakeholders to unite in purpose and work together to end the cycle of violence that has plagued Plateau State for far too long,” the statement added.
Rev. Pam also conveyed Northern CAN’s solidarity with the grieving families and communities in Bassa, offering prayers for peace, healing, and justice. “Plateau must not bleed again,” he said.
However, the statement comes at a time when Northern CAN is battling internal leadership tensions. The tenure of Rev. Yakubu Pam has reportedly expired for over two years, sparking controversy within the association. A rival faction led by Rev. John Hayab recently conducted a parallel election, declaring Hayab as the new chairman—an action Pam’s group has denounced as a “religious coup” and “fraudulent.”
Despite the ongoing leadership dispute, Northern CAN insists that its focus remains on peace, justice, and the protection of innocent lives amid the ongoing unrest in Plateau and other vulnerable parts of the region.