CAN Extends Eid-el-Fitr Greetings to Muslims, Condemns Edo Killings

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has joined in the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, extending warm wishes to the Muslim faithful across the country.

In a statement released on Wednesday, CAN acknowledged the significance of the holy month of Ramadan, emphasizing the values of devotion, self-discipline, and love that it promotes.

The association expressed its solidarity with the Muslim community, reiterating the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of different faiths.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated that religious tolerance remains crucial in fostering national harmony.

He called on both Christians and Muslims to use the occasion as a period of reflection, praying for the peace and progress of Nigeria.

He urged citizens to remain steadfast in promoting love, understanding, and respect for one another, regardless of religious or ethnic backgrounds.

While celebrating the joyous occasion, CAN also took the opportunity to address the recent tragic killings in Edo State, where 16 individuals were lynched and set ablaze in a gruesome act of mob justice.

The incident, which occurred in Uromi, Esan Northeast Local Government Area of the state, has sparked outrage across the country.

Eyewitness reports indicate that the victims were suspected of being kidnappers and were intercepted by a mob before being brutally executed.

However, law enforcement authorities have since raised concerns over the growing trend of mob violence, emphasizing that justice must be carried out through legal means.

CAN strongly condemned the killings, describing them as barbaric and a setback to the country’s efforts in ensuring law and order.

Archbishop Okoh lamented that acts of jungle justice not only violate the fundamental rights of individuals but also undermine the nation’s judicial system.

He urged Nigerians to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and instead allow the authorities to handle criminal cases appropriately.

He emphasized that Nigeria must rise above such acts of brutality and work towards strengthening institutions that ensure justice and security.

The Edo State Government has since reacted to the killings, with Governor Monday Okpebholo assuring that those responsible for the act will be brought to justice.

In a statement, Governor Okpebholo condemned the killings and described them as an act of lawlessness that must not be tolerated.

He warned citizens against engaging in mob actions, noting that every accused person deserves a fair trial as guaranteed by the Constitution.

The governor assured residents that his administration is committed to maintaining peace and order across the state.

Security agencies have been directed to launch a thorough investigation into the incident, with authorities pledging to arrest and prosecute those found guilty of carrying out the attack.

Meanwhile, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has also condemned the killings, stating that they serve as a grim reminder of the dangers of mob justice.

MPAC called for greater public awareness on the implications of such actions, urging religious and community leaders to educate citizens on peaceful conflict resolution.

The organization stressed that Nigeria must work towards strengthening its legal system, ensuring that justice is administered fairly and swiftly.

Religious leaders across the country have continued to advocate for peace, calling on Nigerians to embrace dialogue rather than violence in resolving disputes.

CAN, in its statement, reiterated that all Nigerians must play a role in preventing such violent acts from recurring.

The association emphasized that fostering an environment of peace requires collective responsibility from religious institutions, community leaders, and government agencies.

As Muslims across Nigeria mark the end of Ramadan, CAN’s message serves as a call for unity and reflection.

The association urged Nigerians to use the period to renew their commitment to nation-building, seeking ways to promote harmony and understanding among all citizens.

The tragic events in Edo State serve as a reminder of the challenges facing the country in maintaining peace and security.

The call for justice and an end to mob violence has gained momentum, with various stakeholders emphasizing the need for a more effective legal system.

Security experts have warned that failure to address the growing trend of jungle justice could lead to a breakdown of law and order.

They argue that trust in the justice system must be restored for citizens to have confidence in the legal process.

Legal practitioners have also weighed in on the issue, stating that while frustration with crime is understandable, resorting to violence only worsens the situation.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged the government to take decisive action in prosecuting those involved in extrajudicial killings.

The NBA stressed that law enforcement agencies must do more to ensure that criminals are apprehended and tried in court rather than subjected to mob action.

Civil society organizations have also called for increased awareness campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of taking the law into their own hands.

Human rights groups have emphasized that the rule of law must be upheld at all times, and no one should be denied the right to a fair trial.

As the nation grapples with these challenges, CAN’s call for peace and justice remains a crucial message.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders in ensuring that Nigeria remains a united and peaceful nation.

It encouraged both Christians and Muslims to continue fostering relationships built on mutual respect and understanding.

In the wake of the tragic killings, there is a renewed urgency for Nigeria to address issues of security, justice, and human rights.

Stakeholders have called on the government to intensify efforts in addressing crime while also ensuring that citizens trust the country’s legal institutions.

The events in Edo State have sparked conversations on the need for community policing and improved security measures.

Some analysts have suggested that more investment in intelligence gathering and crime prevention strategies is needed to curb the rising cases of kidnapping and mob violence.

While the celebrations of Eid-el-Fitr continue across the nation, the calls for justice and reform remain at the forefront of national discourse.

CAN’s stance on the matter reflects the broader need for unity in the face of national challenges.

The association continues to advocate for peaceful coexistence, urging Nigerians to reject violence in all forms.

As the country moves forward, the lessons from this tragic incident must not be forgotten.

Ensuring that justice prevails and preventing future occurrences of mob violence will require collective efforts from all sectors of society.

For now, as Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan, CAN’s message of peace, love, and justice stands as a reminder of the values that should guide the nation toward a brighter future.

Religious harmony and respect for human rights remain critical in building a stable and prosperous Nigeria.

CAN has reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that foster interfaith dialogue and understanding.

The association has also called on the government to strengthen legal frameworks that prevent jungle justice and uphold the rule of law.

As Nigerians reflect on the events of the past weeks, there is hope that a renewed commitment to justice and peace will lead to a safer and more united country.

The tragedy in Edo State serves as a wake-up call for authorities to take stronger measures against mob violence.

At the same time, Eid-el-Fitr offers a moment for Nigerians to embrace the spirit of unity and forgiveness.

With CAN’s message resonating across religious lines, there is an opportunity for collective action towards ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their faith, can live in peace and security.

As Nigeria continues to navigate its challenges, the importance of interfaith cooperation cannot be overstated.

The call for peace, justice, and national unity remains more relevant than ever.

CAN’s outreach to the Muslim community underscores the shared values of faith, compassion, and respect for human dignity that should define the nation’s future.