CAN Raises Alarm Over Christian Killings in Northern Nigeria

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has renewed claims that Christians across the country are facing “genocide,” citing years of killings, displacement and targeted attacks by armed groups in several states.

The warning came on Tuesday, shortly after suspected Boko Haram fighters killed eight people—including four civilians and four local security operatives—in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.

Speaking at the Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council Meeting of the Association in Jos, Plateau State, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the continued violence against Christian communities in parts of the country could no longer be dismissed as isolated incidents.

“Our presence in Jos today is not accidental. It is intentional, purposeful, and deeply symbolic,” Okoh told the gathering. “We are here as ambassadors of solidarity, compassion, and moral support. We are here to identify with our brothers and sisters across Plateau State and northern Nigeria who have endured years of unspeakable tragedy—persecution, displacement, devastation, and unrelenting insecurity.”

Okoh said Christian lives have been “brutally cut short,” churches destroyed and entire communities uprooted in ongoing hostilities. According to him, CAN has “spoken clearly and courageously on this matter,” stressing that the Association “stands unwaveringly by our position that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria.”

He recounted a recent visit to Bokkos, where he met displaced Christians, listened to their experiences and delivered relief support. “You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. The Body of Christ stands firmly with you,” he assured them.

The CAN President urged the Federal Government and global partners to intervene decisively to halt the killing and displacement of communities, particularly in Christian-majority areas in Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt. He also called for the immediate resettlement of displaced families, warning that prolonged stay in temporary camps could worsen emotional and humanitarian hardship.

Declaring the NEC meeting open, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang reaffirmed his commitment to restoring peace in the state. Represented by his deputy, Josephine Piyo, the governor described the gathering as “symbolic” and commended CAN for its role in promoting unity and moral leadership.