From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has felicitated the Muslim community in Nigeria on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement on Sunday, said, “As Christians, we deeply resonate with the practices of sharing with our Muslim neighbours the values of prayer, fasting, charity, and community. These common principles form the foundation of our unity and offer hope for a stronger, more harmonious Nigeria.
“However, as we acknowledge this occasion, we cannot ignore the pressing challenges confronting our nation. Security threats such as rampant kidnappings and violence cast a shadow over our communities. Economic difficulties, including soaring inflation and widespread unemployment, place immense burdens on countless families. Social unrest, fuelled by these and other grievances, continues to test our resilience.
“It is within this troubled context that we must address a recent and devastating incident that happened a few days ago where 16 hunters travelling from Port Harcourt to Kano to mark Eid al-Fitr were brutally murdered by a mob in Uromi, Edo State.
“Mistaken for kidnappers due to the traditional hunting tools they carried, these innocent men suffered a horrific fate, beaten and burnt alive in an act of mob violence, denied any chance of due process. This extrajudicial killing is a grievous violation of human rights and a chilling reminder of the dangers of lawlessness.
“These tragedies inflict profound pain and could erode trust in our legal system, highlighting the urgent need for effective law enforcement and the upholding of the rule of law. The government must act decisively to address these failures and ensure justice is served.
“In the face of such challenges, we must not succumb to despair. Instead, let this moment spur us to unite for peace and security. I urge all Nigerians to practise charity, support those in need, and stand together against violence and division. Specifically, we call on the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the killing of the 16 hunters and ensure the perpetrators face justice.”
The CAN President, therefore, challenged leaders at all levels to promote understanding and reject mob actions, while he reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation with Muslim leaders, fostering interfaith initiatives to build a stronger nation.
“As we extend our goodwill on Eid al-Fitr, let us embrace compassion, forgiveness, and mutual respect, and values that can lead us towards a Nigeria where every life is cherished and protected,” he advocated.