CAN Condemns Death Threats In Viral Video, Demands Immediate Action

NEWSDAILYNIGERIA  — The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned a viral social media video showing a group of youths chanting threats of violence and calling for AK-47 rifles to target Christians in Enugu and Jos during Sunday worship.

​In a press statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN described the development as chilling, utterly unacceptable, and a direct incitement to religious violence. The apex Christian body has consequently demanded an immediate, thorough investigation by security agencies to bring those culpable to book.

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​CAN expressed deep concern over the active involvement of children and young persons in the recording, noting that exposing minors to such deep-seated hatred is a dangerous trend that must not be dismissed as mere youthful exuberance.

​The association has formally called on the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant authorities to: Uncover when and where the video was recorded, identify the individuals involved, and track down any organizers or financial backers.

CAN urged them to conduct immediate security risk assessments and provide robust protection for Christian communities, residents, and places of worship in Enugu, Jos, and other potential flashpoints.

The Christian body also asked the authority to ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law without fear, favour, or discrimination.

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​Addressing reactions trailing the footage, CAN acknowledged the swift disavowal and distancing of the video by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS). However, Archbishop Okoh emphasized that an organization’s verbal denial of responsibility cannot substitute for a transparent, independent investigation into the origin of the video and the true identities of the culprits.

 ​”Allowing such conduct to go unchallenged would send a dangerous message that threats against citizens on religious grounds can be made without consequence. The government must demonstrate, through concrete action, that such intimidation will not be tolerated,” CAN warned.

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​The association further appealed to religious leaders across the country to unequivocally reject teachings, slogans, or platforms that promote hatred, bigotry, or violence against adherents of other faiths.

 It strongly stressed the crucial role of grooming younger generations to value human dignity rather than viewing fellow citizens as enemies.

​In the meantime, CAN has urged Christians nationwide to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, cautioning against taking the law into their own hands or engaging in retaliatory actions that could escalate tensions and endanger lives.

​Reiterating its unflinching commitment to justice, religious freedom, and peaceful coexistence, CAN maintained that the safety of Nigerians and the inviolable freedom to worship must never be negotiable.