Abuja – The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) issued a press statement on November 20, 2025 expressing profound sadness over the violent attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, in which worshippers were killed and several others abducted during a prayer service. In the statement, CAN said the assault on peaceful citizens gathered for worship is a heartbreaking reminder of the growing insecurity facing Christian communities across the country.
The national leadership of CAN said it stands 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, and their trauma is one that no community of faith should ever be forced to endure,” the statement read.
CAN noted with deep concern that the Eruku attack adds to a pattern of repeated assaults on Christian populations in vulnerable regions, an issue the organization has consistently raised before government authorities and the international community. “Although official responses have often dismissed fears of targeted violence, the frequency and intensity of these incidents continue to provoke legitimate national and global alarm,” the statement added.
The association called on security agencies to move swiftly to rescue the abducted worshippers and to bring the perpetrators to justice. It said a transparent and credible investigation is essential to reveal how this attack happened, identify lapses in security, and restore public confidence. “The affected families also require immediate medical, emotional and material support at this very difficult time,” CAN emphasized.
CAN also emphasized the urgent need for stronger protection of places of worship, especially in areas repeatedly exposed to violent threats. “This tragedy further highlights the importance of a long‑term national security strategy capable of confronting terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent extremism in a way that guarantees safety and dignity for all Nigerians, irrespective of their faith,” the statement said.
The organization appealed to religious, traditional and community leaders to help maintain calm and prevent any form of reprisal. “Our collective focus must remain on justice, healing and peace, pursued through lawful and constructive means,” it added.
CAN said it will continue to monitor developments closely and engage with authorities and partners to ensure that the victims of the Eruku attack receive justice and that Christian communities across Nigeria are better protected.
The statement was signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria. “We will continue to monitor developments closely and engage with authorities and partners to ensure that the victims of the Eruku attack receive justice and that Christian communities across Nigeria are better protected,” Archbishop Okoh said.
