The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has strongly condemned the brutal killing of 16 northerners in Uromi, Edo State, urging restraint and calling for justice.
In a goodwill message for Eid-el-Fitr, signed by Chairman Rev. Dr John Joseph Hayab and Secretary Bishop Mohammed Naga, Northern CAN expressed deep sorrow over the killings, describing them as a stain on humanity.
“The pain and anguish their families and loved ones must endure are unbearable, and we can only imagine the depth of their suffering. May God grant them comfort, strength, and solace during this darkest of times,” the statement read.
CAN called for peace and unity in the face of the tragedy. “This heinous act of violence is a stain on our collective humanity, and CAN condemns it in the strongest terms. The brutal taking of innocent lives is a tragedy that should unite us all in our outrage and our determination to ensure that justice is served.”
It also warned against calls for retaliation, stressing that revenge would only worsen the cycle of violence.
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“As we mourn the loss of these innocent lives, we appeal to those who are calling for counter-reaction to reconsider their actions. Revenge is not a solution but a recipe for further chaos and destruction. It is the innocent who will suffer again, and the cycle of violence will only continue to worsen.”
Northern CAN further condemned divisive rhetoric and urged Nigerians to reject ethnic and religious stereotyping. “Evil is evil, and criminals must be treated as such without recourse to identities that criminals use to evade justice.”
The group called on security agencies and the government to take swift action. “Finally, we task the security agencies, the government of Edo State, and the Federal Government to ensure diligence in investigating this heinous crime and prosecuting those involved.”
CAN emphasised the need for justice, stating that only a fair and effective legal system could break the cycle of violence in Nigeria.
“By strengthening our justice system to ensure swift and fair punishment for perpetrators of crime, we can create a safer, more just society for all Nigerians.”