The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has accused the Presidency of twisting facts and misrepresenting its stance on the ongoing killings of Christians across the country, insisting that what is happening in several parts of Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt amounts to Christian genocide.
In a statement issued by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said it was disturbed by claims made in a press release reportedly signed by Barrister Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication. The statement had suggested that CAN dismissed reports of a “so-called Christian genocide.”
Archbishop Okoh clarified that at no point did the association downplay or deny the ongoing violence. He maintained that Christian communities in the North and Middle Belt have for years suffered “repeated, organised and brutal attacks”that have left thousands dead and many displaced.
CAN expressed disappointment that the Presidency’s statement, titled “Presidency Debunks Western Christian Genocide Narrative in Dialogue with CAN Leadership,” misrepresented its position. According to the Church body, the meeting with Bwala was cordial and focused on clarifying remarks made by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, who had described the attacks as a “Christian genocide.”
“That portrayal is completely false and grossly unfair,” Okoh said. “At no time did I or anyone from CAN describe the killings as a ‘so-called genocide.’ Doing so would trivialise the pain of thousands of Christians who have lost loved ones, homes, and places of worship in targeted attacks.”
During the meeting, Bishop Mike Akpami, CAN’s Director of Planning, Research and Strategy, presented verified data from www.orfa.africa, showing consistent, targeted attacks on Christians across several African regions, including Nigeria.
The Christian body reaffirmed its call on the Federal Government and security agencies to act urgently and transparently to halt the violence and bring perpetrators to justice.
“Peace cannot exist without truth. Our commitment to peace does not mean silence in the face of injustice,” Okoh said. “We urge all officials and media professionals to speak responsibly, as careless words can deepen wounds and undermine national unity.”
