The Jigawa State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has strongly condemned the recent extra-judicial killing of 16 hunters from Kano State in Uromi, Edo State.
In a press statement issued by the Jigawa State CAN Chairman Rev. Fr. Maurice Kole Hassan described the killings as a criminal act and denounced them in the strongest terms.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Jigawa State Chapter, unequivocally condemns the extra-judicial killing of 16 innocent hunters from Kano, who were brutally murdered in an unimaginable and horrific manner while returning from Port Harcourt,” the statement read.
Rev. Fr. Hassan emphasized that the incident constitutes a crime against humanity and a violation of fundamental human rights, including freedom of movement and association within Nigeria.
“As Christians, we uphold and cherish every human life. We deeply sympathize with the families of the victims and strongly urge the Edo State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria to take decisive action to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. Failure to act could undermine national security and threaten the unity of our country,” he stated.
In a separate message, Rev. Fr. Hassan extended warm felicitations to the Muslim community in Jigawa State and across Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan.
“On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Jigawa State Chapter, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Muslim brothers and sisters on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr. This sacred period of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving underscores values we share as Christians, serving as a foundation for peace and unity in our state and nation.”
He commended Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi for his inclusivity and support for the Christian community, acknowledging that such efforts foster peace, understanding, and brotherhood between Christians and Muslims in the state.
Rev. Fr. Hassan also called for prayers and calm during what he described as a time of national trial, characterized by economic hardship and insecurity.
“The importance of promoting peace, harmony, and peaceful coexistence among ethnic and religious groups cannot be overemphasized. However, peace is impossible without justice,” he concluded.
