CAN Chairman Alleges Plot to Keep Northern Nigeria Divided Through Targeted Attacks on Christians

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Reverend Joseph John Hayab, has raised concerns over what he described as an alleged plan by certain elements to perpetuate division in Northern Nigeria through targeted killings of Christians. Reverend Hayab made the allegation while addressing recent security challenges and rising communal tensions in parts of the country, urging authorities to act decisively to prevent further violence and mistrust among citizens.

He warned that persistent insecurity, if left unaddressed, could deepen religious and ethnic fault lines in the North, undermining decades of coexistence among communities. The CAN chairman stressed that the issue should be treated as a national security concern rather than a religious dispute, calling for unity against all forms of violence.

Allegations and Concerns Raised by CAN

Reverend Hayab alleged that the pattern of attacks on Christian communities in some northern areas appeared calculated to sustain fear and division. According to him, such acts threaten not only the safety of lives and property but also the fragile peace among diverse religious groups in the region. He maintained that no faith group should be singled out or made to feel unsafe in any part of the country.

He further argued that the continued targeting of civilians, regardless of religious identity, reflects broader governance and security failures. Hayab cautioned against narratives that pit communities against one another, noting that insecurity affects Muslims, Christians, and adherents of other beliefs alike.

Call for Government Action and Accountability

The CAN chairman urged the Federal Government and security agencies to investigate the allegations thoroughly and bring perpetrators to justice. He emphasized that accountability is critical to restoring public confidence and preventing retaliatory violence. According to him, silence or delayed responses could embolden criminal elements and worsen the situation.

Hayab also appealed to political and traditional leaders across the North to speak out against violence and promote dialogue. He noted that leadership at all levels has a responsibility to discourage hate speech and ensure that grievances are addressed through lawful and peaceful means.

Appeal for Unity and Peaceful Coexistence

In his remarks, Reverend Hayab called on Nigerians to resist attempts to divide the country along religious lines. He reiterated CAN’s commitment to peacebuilding and interfaith cooperation, stating that the association would continue to work with Muslim leaders and civil society groups to promote understanding.

He concluded by urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national unity, warning that insecurity anywhere poses a threat to stability everywhere.

According to him, lasting peace in the North and across Nigeria can only be achieved through justice, inclusiveness, and collective responsibility.