CAN Condemns Threats to Kill Christians in Viral Video, Demands Probe
Our Correspondent
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has condemned a viral video showing a group of boys chanting threats to attack Christians with AK-47 rifles during Sunday worship in Enugu and Jos.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 27, 2026, and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association described the threats as “chilling and utterly unacceptable.”
CAN said the video, which shows a young man leading a group of boys in chants calling for attacks on Christian worshippers, should not be dismissed as youthful exuberance.
“No Nigerian should have to fear for their life because of their faith or face the prospect of violence simply for gathering to worship God,” the statement said.
The Christian body expressed alarm over the involvement of children in the chants, warning that exposing young people to religious hatred raises serious concerns.
CAN called on the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to launch an urgent investigation to establish when and where the video was recorded, identify those involved, and determine who organized or facilitated it.
It also urged security agencies to assess credible risks arising from the threats and provide protection for churches and Christian communities in Enugu, Jos and other locations.
The association noted the reported disavowal of the video by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah, JIBWIS, but said the denial cannot replace an independent investigation.
“Beyond identifying those directly involved, the investigation should establish whether any individuals or groups encouraged, financed or facilitated the threats,” CAN said.
The association called on religious leaders across the country to unequivocally reject teachings or activities that promote hatred or violence against other faiths.
“Nigeria has endured too much violence, bloodshed and distrust to treat threats of this nature lightly,” Okoh said, warning that failure to act would signal that religious threats carry no consequence.
CAN urged Christians to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while the investigation is carried out, and reaffirmed its commitment to justice, religious freedom and peaceful coexistence.
“The safety of Nigerians and the freedom to worship must never be negotiable,” the statement added.
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