CAN Condemns Deadly Attack on Kwara Church, Demands Swift Rescue of Abducted Worshippers

|By Chinwendu Nwani

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the violent attack on the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, where several worshippers were killed and others abducted during a prayer service.

In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN described the assault as a heartbreaking reminder of rising insecurity targeting Christian communities across the country.

“We stand in solidarity with the families who lost loved ones, with those injured, with the abducted, and with the entire Eruku community in their moment of grief,” Okoh said, stressing that the trauma inflicted on the victims reflects a recurring pattern of violence in vulnerable regions.

CAN criticized what it described as repeated official dismissals of fears of targeted attacks, noting that the frequency and intensity of recent incidents have fueled national and global alarm.

The body urged security agencies to move quickly to rescue the abducted worshippers and arrest those responsible. It also called for a “transparent and credible investigation” to expose security lapses and rebuild public trust.

Beyond immediate response, CAN pressed for stronger protection of worship centers and a long-term national security strategy capable of confronting terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent extremism.

The association also appealed for calm, urging religious and community leaders to discourage reprisals and focus on justice and healing through lawful means.

CAN said it will continue to monitor developments and engage authorities to ensure justice for victims and improved protection for Christian communities nationwide.