The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare war on criminal elements unleashing mayhem on communities in Benue state.
It also urged the government to stop the resurgence of activities of the Boko Haram terrorists in Borno state.
The association, in a statement on Sunday in Kaduna, urged the President to urgently take decisive action to end the bloodshed and destructions.
The statement signed by Sunday Oibe, Secretary General of Northern CAN, condemned Saturday’s killings in Benue communities, declaring that the persistent attacks by suspected herdsmen are unacceptable
The association expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Benue, Borno, and some parts of the country.
Oibe noted that the violent activities perpetrated by suspected herdsmen and Boko Haram terrorists have made life increasingly unbearable for innocent citizens.
He said, “On Saturday, June 13, 2025, we received distressing reports of attacks by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue state.
“Available information indicated that over 100 people were killed in the attacks which occurred less than 48 hours after the tragic killing of 25 people in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa communities in Makurdi LGA
“Reports indicated that many internally displaced persons (IDPs) and farmers were killed, with some reportedly burnt alive in makeshift shelters.
“The gunmen, armed with sophisticated weapons, were said to have launched the attack around midnight and operated for over two hours.
“Similarly, last week in Borno State, one person was killed, while Rev. Fr. Daniel Afina, a Catholic priest and project coordinator of a Christian NGO, along with nine others, were abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on the Gwoza-Limankara Road as they were ambushed while returning from Mubi in Adamawa state”.
Oibe lamented that the security situation appears to be worsening at a time when it seems that the criminal elements had been contained by security agencies.
“We urgently call on the federal government to take decisive and comprehensive action to stop the killings and restore peace and security,” he said.
The statement noted that “President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made initial progress in curbing these violent activities; however, these gains must be sustained and expanded.
“We urge the President to urgently declare total war against these criminals and direct security agencies to neutralize the threat within a clear and enforceable time frame.
“Should the situation prove beyond the capacity of Nigeria’s security forces, the government should seek international assistance to halt the killings and abductions.
“The killings are unacceptable; even within the animal kingdom, this brutality is rare, yet in Nigeria, innocent lives are lost senselessly and repeatedly…”
The association called on the people of Benue to unite and work closely with security agencies to bring an end to the bloodshed.
“Likewise, the menace posed by Boko Haram and associated terrorist groups must be decisively checked to prevent further loss of lives and abductions.
“The sovereignty of our nation and the safety of its citizens depend on a robust and unwavering response from all security apparatus.
“We call on the government and security agencies to marshal all necessary resources and resolve to eradicate these threats without delay.”
Declare total war on criminal elements terrorising Benue, Borno – Northern CAN urges Tinubu
