CAN Seeks Peace, Aid For IDPs In Southern Taraba

The persistent killings and destruction of properties in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas in Taraba State posed a major threat to peace and development of the state.

In an Easter message issued on Sunday, the state chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Very Rev. Fr. Williams Peter Awoshiri, called for an immediate end to the violence in the Southern part of the state.

The CAN chairman urged residents to embrace peace, unity and mutual coexistence for the overall progress of the state.

Very Rev. Fr. Awoshiri said the continued bloodshed contradicts the will of God and undermines the sanctity of human life, stressing that no meaningful development can thrive in an atmosphere of fear and instability.

“We strongly condemn the ongoing violence, killings and destruction of lives and property in Southern Taraba. The continued shedding of innocent blood is both tragic and unacceptable,” he said.

He urged all parties involved in the crisis to lay down their arms and embrace dialogue, justice and understanding as pathways to lasting peace.

The cleric also called on Christians and other residents to use the Easter season as a time for reflection and renewed commitment to values such as love, forgiveness, humility and compassion.

Awoshiri appealed to citizens, regardless of religious or ethnic background, to promote peaceful coexistence, noting that diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.

While commending the efforts of the state government, security agencies and local vigilante groups in addressing the crisis, he stressed the need for more proactive and sustained measures to restore normalcy in the affected communities.

He further appealed to individuals, faith-based organisations and corporate bodies to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), who he said require urgent assistance, including food, medical supplies, clothing and shelter.

“The Easter season calls us to love and compassion. We must extend a helping hand to those displaced by the crisis and support them in their time of need,” he added.

Awoshiri expressed sympathy with victims of the attacks, and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and comforted families who lost loved ones.

He, however, expressed optimism that the state would overcome its current challenges.

“Just as Christ rose from the dead, we believe Taraba State shall rise above its challenges. Peace will be restored, and our land will experience renewal and progress,” he said.

The CAN chairman wished Christians a peaceful Easter celebration and urged all citizens to work collectively towards building a secure and harmonious Taraba State.