By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory has expressed profound sorrow following the death of Rev. Fr. Dr. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of the Plateau State chapter of CAN and Treasurer of Northern CAN.
Fr. Lubo passed away in the early hours of Sunday after a brief illness linked to injuries sustained in a recent accident.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Dr. Joseph John Hayab, the association paid tribute to the late cleric, describing him as a fearless and faithful servant of God who championed truth, justice, peace and the defence of the vulnerable.
“His words during the Plateau Peace Walk, when he declared ‘we deserve to live’, echoed the pain and hopes of victims of violence, displacement, and injustice not only in Plateau but across Nigeria,” the statement read.
Until his passing, Fr. Lubo served as the Parish Priest of St. William’s Catholic Church, Zawan. He was widely respected for his humility, cheerful nature, and ability to foster unity across different communities.
Northern CAN also noted Fr. Lubo’s vital contributions to interfaith cooperation. He worked alongside Muslim leaders under the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development, promoting childhood immunisation and supporting efforts to eradicate polio in Nigeria.
Rev. Hayab praised the late priest’s dedication to financial integrity and his administrative capabilities, both of which strengthened the operations of Northern CAN during his tenure as treasurer. He said Fr. Lubo’s death has left a significant gap within the Northern Christian leadership.
“We send our deepest sympathies to the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos, the leadership of Plateau State CAN, his parishioners, and the wider Christian community,” Hayab stated.
The association called on government institutions and security agencies to uphold the values Fr. Lubo stood for by stepping up measures to protect lives and deliver justice across Plateau State and beyond.