Christian Association Of Nigeria Felicitates With Muslims On Ramadan Success, Calls For Unity Amid National Challenges.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has extended warm congratulations to the nation’s Muslim community for successfully completing the Ramadan fast, while urging all Nigerians to embrace compassion, forgiveness, and mutual respect to forge a stronger, more united country where every life is valued and safeguarded.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh expressed the organisation’s delight at the arrival of Eid-el-Fitr, the joyous festival marking the end of the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. “On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to our Muslim brothers and sisters on this joyous occasion,” he said. “As Christians, we deeply resonate with these practices, sharing with our Muslim neighbours the values of prayer, fasting, charity, and community. These shared principles are the bedrock of our unity and provide hope for a more harmonious Nigeria.”
Archbishop Okoh reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration with Muslim leaders to promote interfaith initiatives aimed at strengthening national cohesion. However, he also acknowledged the severe challenges currently facing Nigeria, including rampant kidnappings, widespread violence, and economic hardships such as soaring inflation and unemployment, which are placing immense strain on families across the country. “Social unrest, fuelled by these and other grievances, continues to test Nigeria’s resilience,” he noted.
The CAN President drew particular attention to a recent tragedy that has shocked the nation. Just days ago, sixteen hunters travelling from Port Harcourt to Kano to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr were brutally killed by a mob in Uromi, Edo State. Mistaken for kidnappers due to the traditional hunting tools they carried, the men were beaten and burned alive in a horrific act of mob violence, denied any opportunity for due process. “This extrajudicial killing is a grievous violation of human rights and a chilling reminder of the dangers of lawlessness,” Okoh said. “We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of these hunters, who now mourn the loss of their loved ones taken in such a senseless and brutal manner.”
The incident, he warned, risks further eroding public trust in Nigeria’s legal system at a time when effective law enforcement and adherence to the rule of law are desperately needed. “Our thoughts are with all families affected by recent acts of violence and injustice across Nigeria,” he added. “The government must act decisively to address these failures and ensure justice is served.”
Despite these sobering realities, Archbishop Okoh called on Nigerians to resist despair and unite in pursuit of peace and security. “I urge all Nigerians to practice charity, support those in need, and stand together against violence and division,” he said. “Specifically, we call on the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the killing of the sixteen hunters and ensure the perpetrators face justice. Leaders at all levels must promote understanding and reject mob actions.”
The statement concluded with a message of hope, as Okoh encouraged citizens to draw inspiration from the shared values of Ramadan and the Christian faith to build a Nigeria where compassion and respect prevail. “Together, we can overcome these challenges and create a nation where every life is cherished and protected,” he said.
