The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has felicitated with Muslims across the country on the successful completion of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, CAN described Ramadan as a spiritually significant period and congratulated Muslims for observing it with devotion.
The association also condemned the recent killing of 16 travellers in Uromi, Edo State, describing the incident as a stain on humanity.
“This heinous act of violence is tragic and unacceptable. The pain and anguish their families and loved ones must endure are unbearable, and we can only imagine the depth of their suffering. May God grant them comfort, strength, and solace during this dark time,” the statement read.
CAN called on security agencies, the Edo State Government, and the Federal Government to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation that would bring the perpetrators to justice.
The group urged Nigerians to reject any form of retaliation, cautioning that revenge would only lead to further bloodshed and suffering.
“Revenge is not a solution but a recipe for more chaos and destruction. It is always the innocent who suffer, and the cycle of violence will only worsen,” it stated.
CAN also condemned the stereotyping of any group based on the actions of criminals, stressing that crime should be treated as an individual offense rather than linked to ethnicity or religion.
“The tendency to generalise and demonise entire communities due to the actions of a few must be rejected. Evil is evil, and criminals must be dealt with accordingly, without allowing identities to shield them from justice,” the statement added.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to peace and unity, calling on all Nigerians to work together towards a society where every citizen can live without fear of violence or persecution.
It concluded by urging the government to strengthen the justice system to ensure swift and fair punishment for criminals, noting that this was essential for achieving lasting peace in the country.