CAN Backs US Claims of Christian Persecution, Urges FG to Protect Vulnerable Communities

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has aligned with recent claims from US lawmakers alleging systematic attacks on Christians in Nigeria and has called on the federal government to act swiftly to protect affected communities.

In a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN president, the association highlighted repeated assaults on Christian communities, particularly in the northern region, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of places of worship.

“Many Christian communities have endured severe attacks, and these realities underscore the urgent need for government and security agencies to act decisively to protect every citizen, regardless of region,” the statement read.

The association noted that it has long engaged in advocacy at both national and international levels, including appeals to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and hosting global Christian bodies like the World Evangelical Alliance.

CAN further stressed that “cries for justice and protection are often met with delay or denial” and urged transparent and effective intervention to halt the killings and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.

The statement also called on Christian leaders to act with unity, wisdom, and faith, emphasizing that “peace is too fragile to be taken for granted.” Okoh added that national healing requires confronting collective failures and rebuilding trust among communities.

The association’s remarks follow recent interventions by US officials. Senator Ted Cruz proposed a bill to protect Christians in Nigeria, while Congressman Riley Moore urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take decisive diplomatic steps in response to alleged systematic persecution. Comedian Bill Maher also condemned what he described as the “systematic extermination of Christians” in Nigeria by terrorist groups.

President Bola Tinubu has dismissed claims of religious genocide as unfounded, noting that Nigeria thrives on cultural and religious diversity. Similarly, Information Minister Mohammed Idris described the allegations as “ignorant, false and baseless.”

CAN, however, maintains that sustained and equitable government action is critical to preventing further loss of life and fostering national peace.