The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing peace in the violence-prone communities in Plateau, Benue, and Gombe state.
The Association, in a statement issued by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh in Abuja, condemned the ongoing violence in some parts of the country, reaffirming its commitment to advocating for the safety, security, and dignity of affected communities.
The association has also backed the recent peace meeting between the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jnr. and Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, saying it “encourages open and honest dialogue among all stakeholders, both local and international” to restore peace in Nigeria.
CAN stated that only “trusted platforms like the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council provide the ideal space to raise concerns and work together towards practical, sustainable solutions” to peace efforts in the troubled middle belt states.
Ambassador Mills on Monday met with MACBAN leaders in Abuja. Rising from the meeting, the U.S. Embassy posted the following on its verified “X” handle: “Today, Ambassador Mills met with the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria to hear about the concerns of herder communities. The meeting included discussion of the causes of insecurity and opportunities to peacefully resolve conflict.”
The meeting did not sit well with certain interest groups, with some accusing the ambassador of backing “Fulani terrorists” they alleged were killing Christians.
However, in a statement on Saturday, CAN leadership urged “Nigerians from all walks of life, backgrounds, and faiths to support ongoing peace initiatives and refrain from actions that could undermine efforts to address the country’s security challenges, particularly in the Middle Belt region.”
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The statement, entitled “CAN Backs Peace Talks to Tackle Insecurity in Middle-Belt Region,” was signed by CAN president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
“This appeal is imperative as violence in the Middle Belt continues to claim lives, with recent attacks in Benue and Plateau, resulting in significant casualties and displacement, further highlighting the urgent need for collective action and dialogue.”
CAN urged Nigerians irrespective of their backgrounds and faiths to support ongoing peace talks and avoid actions or rhetoric that could escalate tensions in the affected states.
The association highlighted its ongoing efforts, including visits to affected areas to provide relief items and solidarity, and emphasised the importance of verified information to prevent further division.
It also encouraged open dialogue among all stakeholders, both local and international, and pointed to platforms like the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council as key to finding sustainable solutions.
“We appeal to all citizens to refrain from spreading unverified information that may deepen divisions.
“The strength of our nation lies in our unity, and it is only through collective effort that we can build a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
“Let us embrace the teachings of the Holy Bible to love our neighbours, and the pursue peace with all,” it said.
CAN reiterated its dedication to promoting peace, unity, and understanding, calling on all parties to work together for the well-being of every Nigerian, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
Crediblenewsng.com
