The Christian Association of Nigeria, has stated that Christians in the northern part of the country must take proactive steps to defend themselves against persistent attacks amid the Easter celebration.
The statement came after the Angwan Rukuba community in Plateau State’s Jos North Local Government Area was attacked on Palm Sunday.
Recall that 20 people were killed and numerous others were injured in the tragedy, which happened at around 8 p.m.
Following the attack, the Defence Headquarters deployed troops on nationwide alert ahead of the Easter celebrations, assuring Nigerians of tightened security.
Speaking to reporters at the end-of-month briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Maj Gen Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, reassured the public that troops would be more vigilant around Easter.
However, Joseph Hayab, the Chairman of CAN in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, told Saturday PUNCH that the Christian community would not succumb to terror in spite of the spate of murders and ongoing security issues.
“These killers are not spirits. These killers are human beings; they may have got some upper hand, but when our people really organise themselves, a time will come when you see that the person who is chasing you, you are chasing him back.
“Unless and until all of us start organising ourselves to chase those who have been chasing us, they will torment us for the next 200 years. If we are no longer afraid of our attackers, what have we done? Have we been able to defend ourselves? Must we say we are defending ourselves since we are not afraid of the attackers?
“Since 2009 till today, they have been tormenting us every time it is Easter and Christmas; they will deny us the joy of celebrating. They (terrorists) are telling us that they will attack us. What kind of a thing is that? So, should we stop everything and go into hiding? No, every church leader should tell his members that enough is enough of this rubbish,” Hayab said.
Hayab stated that although the spate of murders and acts of violence, especially around the Easter season, was extremely concerning, the Christian community’s commitment will not waver.
He bemoaned how overwhelming the ongoing bloodshed had become, particularly as Christians get ready for Easter.
He described the situation as a major test for the government, pointing out that many Nigerians were starting to doubt official guarantees.
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