The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has accused the Presidency of twisting facts and misrepresenting its position on the ongoing killings of Christians across the country, claiming that what is happening in several parts of Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt constitutes a ‘Christian genocide.’
CAN clarified in a statement issued by its president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, that it did not dismiss or describe the widespread killings as a ‘so-called Christian genocide,’ as claimed in a press release reportedly issued by Barrister Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication.
According to the statement, the controversy arose from Bwala’s visit to the CAN Secretariat at the National Christian Centre in Abuja on Monday, during which he sought to understand CAN’s position on remarks made by US Senator Ted Cruz, who described the ongoing killings of Christians in Nigeria as a ‘Christian genocide.’
“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, organized, 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,” the CAN president said.
CAN voiced concern about the Presidency’s subsequent publication, headed ‘Presidency Debunks Western Christian Genocide Narrative in Dialogue with CAN Leadership.’
The apex Christian group claimed that the study incorrectly implied that Archbishop Okoh downplayed the killings by referring to 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’ trivializes the pain of countless Christians who have lost loved ones, homes, and places of worship in targeted attacks,” Archbishop Okoh said.
The Christian body also stated that during the meeting, Bishop Mike Akpami, its Director of Planning, Research, and Strategy, provided verifiable statistics from www.orfa.africa indicating systematic and targeted attacks on Christians in numerous African regions, including Nigeria.
Those present at the meeting included Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President; Rev. (Dr.) Stephen Panya Baba, Vice President; Apostle (Prof.) Samson Fatokun, General Secretary; Dean Rev. Emmanuel Nicodemus Ozumba, Director of Education, Women, and Youth; Dame Comfort Otera Chigbue (Esq), Director of Legal and Public Affairs; Bishop Mike Akpami, Director of Planning, Research, and Strategy; Prophet Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, Director of National Issues and 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, CAN stated that Rev. Dr. Uzoaku Williams, Assistant General Secretary, and Dr. Celestine Aharanwa, whose names appeared in various media reports, were not present during the meeting.
“We call on the Federal Government and security agencies to act with urgency, fairness, and transparency to halt these killings and bring all perpetrators to justice.
“We also urge media professionals and government officials to speak with truth, empathy, and responsibility, as careless words can deepen wounds and undermine peace,” Archbishop Okoh said.
CAN emphasized that its commitment to peace does not imply silence in the face of injustice and that truth should always lead communication between the Church, the State, and the public.
