In response to the recent rise of violence in Plateau State, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) took to the streets in a peaceful protest on Monday, expressing their dissatisfaction with the prevailing security situation, News About Nigeria reports.
Led by prominent Christian leaders in the state, including the state CAN chairman, Rev Polycarp Lubo, ECWA President, Rev Dr Stephen Baba Panya, COCIN President, Rev Dr Amos Mohzo, Bishop of the Methodist Church, Jos, Rev Nkechi Nwosu, and President of the Gideon and Funmi-ParaMallam Peace Foundation, Rev. Dr Gideon ParaMallam, among others, the protest, known as the ‘Plateau Peace Walk’, aimed to draw attention to the continuous killings in Plateau State and other parts of the country.
The peace walk commenced at the PRTVC Roundabout in Jos, with participants marching towards the Rayfield Government House.
The Christian leaders voiced their disapproval of the current security situation and called for urgent measures to address the ongoing violence.
The protest follows a deadly attack on Christmas Day in Plateau State, where gunmen attacked the NTV community near Bokkos Local Government Area, resulting in the tragic deaths of over 100 people.
The state’s police command reported that 221 houses were also burned down during the attack.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, condemned the attack in a statement, describing the burning of houses and worship centres as an assault on the peace and unity of the people of Plateau State.
He expressed sympathy for the state government and the families of the deceased, offering prayers for the repose of their souls.
Okoh assured that the Christian body stands firmly with them during this critical time and pledged to collaborate with the Plateau state government in supporting the victims.
The CAN President commended the swift intervention of the state governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and the Nigerian military, urging them to reinforce the state’s security system to prevent future attacks.
Okoh called on Nigerians to remember the bereaved families in their prayers and provide the support needed to navigate through this recent tragedy.
