Ekiti church attack: CAN demands swift action, rescue of worshippers

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By Luminous Jannamike

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has demanded swift and decisive action after gunmen attacked a church gathering in Eda Oniyo, Ekiti State, killing a Pastor and abducting several worshippers during an open-air crusade.

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The response from the apex Christian body reflects growing concern over a string of similar attacks, with CAN warning that the violence is no longer isolated.

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It demanded urgent rescue efforts, arrests and a stronger security response to stem what it describes as a worsening situation.

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In a statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association said it received reports of the incident with shock and outrage.

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Archbishop Okoh said, “This is a chilling and utterly reprehensible act. This is not merely an attack on a church; it is a direct assault on human dignity, freedom of worship, and the sanctity of life.”

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CAN expressed sympathy with the family of the slain Pastor and solidarity with affected worshippers, while demanding the immediate release of those abducted.

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“We mourn with the family of the slain Pastor, and we demand the immediate and unconditional release of those taken captive,” the CAN President added.

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Linking the incident to a broader pattern, CAN cited recent attacks in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, where gunmen abducted residents, including clergy and their families.

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“These recurring incidents point to a worsening security breakdown that demands urgent national attention,” it said.

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Raising wider concerns about public safety, the association warned against the increasing vulnerability of communities and places of worship.

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CAN said, “No place of worship must ever be reduced to a soft target for criminal violence.

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“We state unequivocally: the protection of lives and property is the foremost responsibility of government.

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“The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted without delay.”

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Beyond the immediate response, CAN urged authorities to strengthen security in vulnerable areas and adopt intelligence-led measures to prevent further attacks.

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“The nation must draw a firm line: the targeting of innocent citizens, especially in sacred spaces, is unacceptable,” it added.

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The association warned against complacency, saying such acts must never be allowed to fester or become normalised.

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CAN also offered prayers for the bereaved and those still in captivity, while calling for the restoration of peace and security across the country.

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