The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep concern over the recent suicide attacks in Gwoza, Borno State.
The attacks, which took place on Saturday resulted in the death of over 30 and dozens of injuries.
The attacks, carried out by suspected female suicide bombers, struck a wedding, a hospital, and a funeral in Gwoza, a border town near Cameroon.
In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh said the resurgence of suicide bombings was a grave threat to the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to combat terrorism.
Okoh said the attacks in Gwoza served as a stark reminder that terrorism endangers our collective humanity while calling for a unified condemnation of such acts of evil and support for security agents’ efforts to protect the population.
He said: “The National Leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria is deeply worried by the recent suicide attacks in Gwoza, Borno State, which have claimed numerous lives and injured many others.
“We are concerned about the resurgence of suicide bombing in our country and the threat it poses to the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians. This senseless act of violence is a stark reminder of the evil that terrorism represents, and the need for collective action to defeat it.”
He commended the relentless efforts of security agents working to contain the threat of terrorism and urged them to continue their crucial work.
“We commend the security agents who have been working tirelessly to contain the threat of terrorism in our country. We encourage them not to relent in their efforts, as every necessary intervention is welcome to prevent a relapse into the dark days of suicide attacks.
“We must not let down our guards, as the situation could escalate and affect not only innocent lives but also worship centres and other large gatherings,” Okoh noted.
CAN urged the government to intensify its efforts to ensure the security and safety of all citizens, particularly in vulnerable regions.
Religious leaders and all Nigerians were encouraged to unite against terrorism and violence, fostering peace, love, and harmony.
“We call on the government to intensify efforts to ensure the security and safety of all citizens, particularly in vulnerable regions.
“We also urge religious leaders and Nigerians to unite against terrorism and violence, promoting peace, love, and harmony”, the statement added.
