Writing By Daniel Karlmax , Editing By Godwin Duru
Leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN from the nineteen northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT have met with the National Security Adviser, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to voice serious concerns about rising insecurity and religious bias in the region.
The meeting in Abuja, was attended by the Heads of the Department of State Services, DSS, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, and the National Intelligence Agency, NIA, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.
In a communiqué signed by the Chairman, Reverend John Joseph Hayab, and the Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, the Northern CAN leaders thanked the NSA for his willingness to engage with them and warned that, the continued marginalization of Christians and widespread insecurity could lead to unrest and further divide the country.
The northern Christian body highlighted several issues, including hate preaching and fake news, which they identified as factors that could fuel conflict, and urged the government to better equip security agencies to track and punish those spreading dangerous content.
On the issue of rising internally displaced persons (IDPs), the Christian body warned that failure to properly care for displaced people could lead to long-term instability.
They praised the federal government for the creation of a commission for Almajiris and called for broader reforms to include education and rehabilitation.
The northern CAN also expressed concern that some reintegrated militants are causing new problems in communities and demanded stricter de-radicalization programs before reintegration.
The leaders identified other challenges, including the denial of land for churches, biased admissions, limited job opportunities, and the forced conversion of Christian girls, urging the federal government to take immediate action to prevent religion tension.
On the issue of peace and harmonious coexistence, the leaders recommended forming an interfaith forum made up of respected Christian and Muslim leaders to work together on solutions.
They also called for more youth education on drug abuse and for stronger partnerships between religious groups and security forces.
Despite the challenges raised, the CAN leaders thanked the NSA and his team for listening, and promised to continue working with the government to build a safer and more united Nigeria.
Daniel Karlmax
