The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the recent wave of killings in Benue State that claimed over 200 lives, calling for swift and decisive action from the Federal Government to end the bloodshed and restore security.

In a statement released Monday and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association described the attacks as “horrific” and “senseless,” noting that they have inflicted “immeasurable pain” on families and further destabilised already vulnerable communities.

“These senseless killings have devastated communities and further entrenched the insecurity threatening our nation,” Okoh stated, extending CAN’s condolences to the bereaved and praying for the peaceful repose of the victims.

CAN expressed deep concern over the recurrence of violence in Benue, criticising the government’s perceived failure to ensure justice or deter attackers. “For too long, the people of Benue have faced recurrent assaults blamed on armed groups, without meaningful intervention or accountability,” the statement said.

The Christian body urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the hardest-hit areas, deploy reinforced security personnel, and launch a transparent investigation to identify and prosecute all those responsible for the massacre.

“Justice must prevail to break the grip of impunity fueling these atrocities,” Archbishop Okoh emphasized, warning that continued inaction would only embolden perpetrators.

CAN also appealed to the international community to support peace and recovery efforts in Benue, and stressed the importance of rebuilding trust through justice, transparency, and proactive protection of lives.

“The Christian Association of Nigeria remains unwavering in its commitment to defending the sanctity of life and advocating for the protection and dignity of all Nigerians. May peace be restored, and may justice roll down like waters,” the statement concluded.