Christian Association of Nigerian (CAN), in the 19 Northern States and Abuja has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s current economic challenges and heightened security issues, pleading with Nigerians to pray for the security agencies as they confront terrorists.
In a statement released by its Secretary-General, Elder Sunday Oibe, the organization called on the Federal Government to promptly address the pressing issues affecting ordinary Nigerians.
The statement emphasised the unbearable suffering faced by many citizens due to the soaring costs of foodstuffs, transportation, goods, and services. Small businesses have collapsed due to erratic power supply, further exacerbated by the weakening purchasing power caused by the continuous decline in the value of the naira.
Expressing sadness over persistent attacks in Plateau State, where numerous lives have been lost, the Christian body urged the government to take decisive action to halt killings not only in Plateau but across the country.
The organisation stated, “The continued decline in the value of naira and the seeming inability of the government to address the situation has completely weakened the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians.
“The situation is further compounded by escalating insecurity occasioned by rampant killings and kidnapping for ransom.
“Unless justice is done, by ensuring that the perpetrators and whoever are the sponsors are brought to book, all the talks about peace may be mere rhetorics.
“Government must take urgent steps to address the depressing economic and escalating security situation in the country.
“We called on governments at all levels to support our security agencies with all that is required to fight these criminals.
“We also called on Nigerians to cooperate with security personnel and pray for them as they confront these enemies of the nation.”
In addition, the Christian Association of Nigerians in the North criticized regional groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum; the Northern Elders Forum, and some Northern Senators, for opposing the government’s plan to relocate some departments in the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria from Abuja to Lagos.
The association condemned the introduction of ethnic and regional sentiments, stating that such policies are meant to streamline operations, enhance effectiveness, and reduce costs.