The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the violent attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, where worshippers were killed and several others abducted during a prayer service.
In a statement signed on Thursday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN described the incident as “a heartbreaking reminder of the growing insecurity facing Christian communities across the country,” expressing deep sorrow over the assault on citizens gathered for worship.
“We stand in solidarity with the families who lost loved ones, with those injured, with the abducted, and with the entire Eruku community in their moment of grief. Their pain is our collective pain,” Okoh said, noting that no community of faith should be subjected to such trauma.
CAN said the Eruku attack adds to a disturbing pattern of repeated assaults on Christian populations in vulnerable regions an issue the association has continually raised with government authorities and the international community.
Despite official attempts to downplay fears of targeted violence, the group said the frequency and severity of such incidents have become a source of national and global concern.
The association called on security agencies to act swiftly to rescue the abducted worshippers and bring the perpetrators to justice.
It also demanded a transparent investigation to determine how the attack occurred, identify security lapses and restore public confidence.
CAN urged the government to ensure immediate medical, emotional and material support for affected families.
Okoh stressed the need for stronger protection of places of worship, particularly in communities repeatedly exposed to violent attacks, adding that the tragedy underscores the urgency of a long-term national strategy to confront terrorism, banditry and violent extremism.
He further appealed to religious, traditional and community leaders to help maintain calm and avoid reprisals, insisting that justice, healing and peace must guide public response.
CAN assured that it will continue to monitor developments and engage authorities to ensure justice for victims and improved protection for Christian communities across the country.
