The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) strongly condemn the recent tragic attack on the Redeemed Christian Church in Ogun, and also expressed heartfelt condolences to the Salvation Army in Edo.
According to reports from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), armed assailants targeted the RCCG parish in Abule-Ori, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun on June 2, resulting in the death of the pastor and the abduction of seven church members.
In another unfortunate incident on the same day, NAN stated that 12 pastors from the Salvation Army, along with a baby and a driver, lost their lives in an accident near Benin City, Edo.
CAN’s President, Daniel Okoh, conveyed this message of concern and sympathy in Abuja on Wednesday. He expressed deep shock upon receiving news of these tragic events.
Okoh called upon the various security agencies to heighten their vigilance in places of worship and during religious gatherings, ensuring the provision of adequate security measures for worshippers. He encouraged citizens not to be disheartened by these recent losses but to maintain their faith and reliance on God for assistance. CAN expressed solidarity with the affected families and churches, offering thoughts and prayers during this trying time.
See also: Bandits Abduct 40, 15 Escape During Church Service In Kaduna
The religious leader also extended support and prayers to the Salvation Army, requesting divine comfort and solace for their grieving hearts. He urged government authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the church accident to prevent future recurrences. The attack on the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Ogun is viewed as an assault on religious freedom in Nigeria.
“We mourn the loss of the Pastor and condemn the kidnapping of worshippers who were simply exercising their religious freedom to worship. We commend the security agencies for their swift response to the incident and call for intensified efforts to apprehend all the perpetrators,“ he said.
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