The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned a viral video in which a young man was seen leading a group of boys in chants calling for AK-47 rifles to attack Christians in Enugu and Jos during Sunday worship.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh in a statement issued Tuesday described the threats as chilling and unacceptable, saying no Nigerian should fear for their life because of their faith.
He expressed alarm over the involvement of children and young persons in the chants threatening to kill worshippers, warning that it raises serious concerns about exposure to hatred.
Okoh added: “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.
“Such threats must not be dismissed as mere chants or treated as harmless displays of youthful exuberance.”
The Christian body called on the Department of State Services (DSS), 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 organised or facilitated it.
Okoh noted: “We also urge the authorities to assess any credible security risks arising from the threats and take appropriate measures to protect Christian communities and places of worship in Enugu, Jos and elsewhere.”
The association stressed the reported disavowal of the video by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), but said denial of responsibility cannot replace an independent investigation.
Okoh insisted: “Beyond identifying those directly involved, the investigation should establish whether any individuals or groups encouraged, financed or facilitated the threats.
“Those responsible must face the full consequences of the law, without favour or discrimination.”
Okoh also charged religious leaders across Nigeria to unequivocally reject any teaching or activity promoting hatred against people of another faith, stressing that young people should be raised to respect human life.
“Nigeria has endured too much violence, bloodshed and distrust to treat threats of this nature lightly. Allowing such conduct to go unchallenged would send a dangerous message that threats against citizens on religious grounds can be made without consequence,” he said.
CAN urged Christians to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while authorities investigate, warning against retaliatory actions that could deepen divisions.
“CAN stands for justice, religious freedom and peaceful coexistence… The safety of Nigerians and the freedom to worship must never be negotiable,” Okoh added.