The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to unmask the perpetrators behind the alleged continued killing of Christians across Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt.
In a statement issued by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the Christian Association accused the Presidency of twisting facts and grossly misrepresenting its position on the ongoing killings of Christians.
The controversy arose following a press release reportedly issued by Barrister Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, which suggested that CAN had downplayed the killings.
The controversy stemmed from Bwala’s Monday visit to the CAN Secretariat, where he sought to understand the Association’s stance on remarks by United States Senator Ted Cruz, who had described the persistent killings as a “Christian genocide.”
Archbishop Okoh stated that CAN’s long-established position remains unchanged: “Across many parts of Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt, Christian communities have suffered repeated, organised and brutal attacks which have left thousands dead, villages destroyed and families displaced. These are not isolated crimes but a continuing pattern of violence that has persisted for years without justice or closure.”
CAN expressed alarm over the Presidency’s subsequent release, titled ‘Presidency Debunks Western Christian Genocide Narrative in Dialogue with CAN Leadership,’ which falsely suggested Archbishop Okoh had downplayed the killings.
“That portrayal is completely false and grossly unfair. Referring to the tragedy as a ‘so-called genocide’ trivialises the pain of countless Christians who have lost loved ones, homes and places of worship in targeted attacks,” Archbishop Okoh asserted, clarifying that the meeting was recorded and that he never used such dismissive language.
During the meeting, the Christian body affirmed that its leadership, including Archbishop Okoh, Vice President Rev. (Dr.) Stephen Panya Baba, and key directors such as Bishop Mike Akpami (Director of Planning, Research and Strategy), presented verified data demonstrating consistent and targeted attacks on Christians across several regions of Africa, including Nigeria.
CAN also clarified that Rev. Dr. Uzoaku Williams and Dr. Celestine Aharanwa, whose names appeared in some media reports, were not present at the meeting.
“We call on the Federal Government and security agencies to act with urgency, fairness and transparency to halt these killings and bring all perpetrators to justice,” Archbishop Okoh urged.
The CAN President also called on media professionals and government officials “to speak with truth, empathy and responsibility,” warning that careless words can deepen wounds and undermine peace.
