CAN reaffirms Christian genocide in Nigeria, chides Presidency

By Omodele Adigun

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reaffirmed Christian genocide in the country, stating that Christian communities  have suffered repeated, organised and brutal attacks that had left many dead.

CAN was reacting to  media reports which stated otherwise following the visit of Barrister Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, to the CAN Secretariat at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Monday, 20 October 2025.

In a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) the Christian body said during the visit,  Bwala sought to understand CAN’s position regarding the global reactions to remarks by United States Senator Ted Cruz, who described the widespread attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria as a ‘Christian genocide.’

Bala, according to CAN,  noted that both Christians and Muslims had suffered from insecurity, adding that the current administration inherited the problem and was working to address it.

“CAN made it clear that its position on this issue has long been established and remains unchanged. Across many parts of Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt, Christian communities have suffered repeated, organised, and brutal attacks which have left thousands dead, villages destroyed, and families displaced.

“These are not isolated crimes but a continuing pattern of violence that has persisted for years without justice or closure.”

However, CAN said it was alarmed to see a press statement reportedly issued by Barrister Bwala, titled ‘Presidency Debunks Western Christian Genocide Narrative in Dialogue with CAN Leadership.’

It said the report falsely suggested that the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, dismissed or downplayed the ongoing killings by describing them as a ‘so-called Christian genocide.’

“That portrayal is completely false and grossly unfair. The meeting was recorded by CAN’s media team, and at no point did Archbishop Okoh use such words or express such a view. Referring to the tragedy as a ‘so-called genocide’ trivialises the pain of countless Christians who have lost loved ones, homes, and places of worship in targeted attacks.”

It added that during the meeting, CAN’s Director of Planning, Research and Strategy, Bishop Mike Akpami, presented verified data from www.orfa.africa showing consistent and targeted attacks on Christians across several regions of Africa, including Nigeria.

The meeting was attended by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN; Rev. (Dr.) Stephen Panya Baba, Vice President; Apostle (Prof.) Samson Fatokun, General Secretary; Dean Rev. Ozumba, Emmanuel Nicodemus, Director of Education, Women & Youth; Dame Comfort Otera Chigbue (Esq), Director of Legal & Public Affairs; Bishop Mike Akpami, Director of Planning, Research & Strategy; Prophet Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, Director of National Issues & Social Welfare; Rev. Dr. Simon Dolly, Secretary, North Central Zone; and Dr. Victor Ivoke, Senior Special Assistant to the CAN President.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Rev. Dr. Uzoaku Williams, Assistant General Secretary; and Dr. Celestine Aharanwa, whose names appeared in some reports, were not present at the meeting,” the Christian body further clarified.

CAN called on the Federal Government and security agencies to act with urgency, fairness, and transparency to halt the killings and bring all perpetrators to justice.

It also urged media professionals and government officials to speak with truth, empathy, and responsibility, as careless words can deepen wounds and undermine peace.