The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on security agencies to investigate a viral video showing a young man leading a group of boys in chants advocating attacks on Christians in Enugu and Jos during Sunday worship.
The association described the chants as “chilling and utterly unacceptable,” demanding that those responsible be identified and prosecuted if found culpable.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on behalf of the national leadership, CAN said Nigerians must be able to practise their faith without fear of attacks or intimidation. It warned that the threats should not be dismissed as youthful exuberance.
CAN urged the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to establish when and where the video was recorded, identify those involved and determine who organised or facilitated the activity.
The association also called for investigations into whether individuals or groups financed or encouraged the threats. It expressed particular concern about the involvement of children and young people, warning that exposure to messages promoting religious hatred could have serious consequences.
It further urged security agencies to assess potential threats arising from the video and take appropriate measures to protect Christian communities and places of worship in Enugu, Jos and other parts of the country.
While acknowledging the reported disavowal of the video by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), CAN insisted that the organisation’s position should not replace an independent investigation.
The association also called on religious leaders to condemn messages promoting hostility against people of other faiths and teach young people to respect human life and the rights of fellow citizens.
Warning against the dangers of ignoring threats of religious violence, CAN said failure to investigate the incident could create the impression that threats against Nigerians on religious grounds would go unpunished.
However, the association urged Christians to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while the authorities investigate, cautioning against retaliation that could worsen religious and social tensions.
“CAN stands for justice, religious freedom and peaceful coexistence,” Okoh said, stressing that every Nigerian was entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of religious affiliation.
The association called on the government to ensure a thorough investigation and hold anyone found responsible accountable, insisting that the safety of Nigerians and their freedom to worship must remain non-negotiable.