By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to launch a sincere, transparent investigation into the sponsors and financiers of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, urging leaders to use the Christmas season as a turning point for national renewal and lasting security.The call was contained in a Christmas message signed by the Northern CAN Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, and Secretary General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, and made available to journalists on Tuesday.Northern CAN warned that Nigeria cannot achieve lasting peace without decisively addressing the root causes of insecurity, stressing that exposing and prosecuting those who fund violent crimes is critical to ending bloodshed across the country.
The association said Christmas goes beyond celebration, offering Nigerians “an opportunity for sober reflection on the moral conscience of the nation and the social direction of our country.”“Christmas calls the nation to peace, justice, compassion, and respect for the sanctity of human life,” the statement read. “A just and secure society is built on moral courage, compassion, and collective responsibility.” While acknowledging the severe economic and social hardships facing many citizens, Northern CAN commended individuals, faith-based organisations, and community leaders who supported vulnerable people through palliatives and charitable outreach during the festive season. It described such gestures as a demonstration of enduring values of love, sacrifice, and shared responsibility that should define national life beyond Christmas.On security, the association praised the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in defending lives and property, urging them to remain steadfast until insecurity is decisively curtailed.“
The continued existence of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping has inflicted immense pain on individuals, families, and communities, leaving deep scars that many may never fully recover from,” the statement noted.Northern CAN, however, welcomed the Federal Government’s recent designation of kidnappers, bandits, and violent criminal groups as terrorists, describing the move as a step that strengthens the national security framework.
According to the association, the designation demonstrates a stronger political will to confront insecurity with the seriousness it deserves, while also providing a legal framework for tougher action against violent groups.In a separate statement on justice and governance, Northern CAN applauded Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, for granting clemency to Sunday Jackson, a Christian farmer previously sentenced to death following a violent attack on his farm.The association described the earlier conviction as a miscarriage of justice, stating that the governor’s decision had restored public confidence in fairness, equity, and the rule of law.“
The grant of clemency affirms the principle that self-defence in the face of mortal danger should not be criminalised while terrorists and their sympathisers roam freely,” Northern CAN said.The association urged leaders at all levels of government to uphold justice, equity, and accountability, while calling on citizens to remain law-abiding and committed to peaceful coexistence.“ As Nigerians celebrate Christmas, we must pray for the healing of our land and work collectively for a safer, more just, and united Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
