By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State chapter, has urged security personnel deployed to Southern Taraba to adopt more proactive strategies to decisively end the continued bloodshed in the area.
The association condemned what it described as “continued bloodshed” in Takum and Donga local government areas, stressing that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear, violence, and instability.
It also called on citizens not to lose hope, expressing confidence that Taraba State will rise above its challenges, just as Christ rose from the dead, bringing new life and renewed hope to the world.
The CAN chairman, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Williams Peter Awoshiri, made the call in an Easter message on Sunday, emphasizing that the continuous shedding of innocent blood is both tragic and unacceptable, and a direct contradiction to the will of God, who values every human life.
“It is with a deeply burdened heart that I address the unfortunate and painful realities confronting parts of our dear state. We strongly and unequivocally condemn the ongoing violence, killings, and destruction of lives and property in Southern Taraba, particularly in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas.
“The continuous shedding of innocent blood is both tragic and unacceptable. It is a direct contradiction to the will of God, who values every human life and calls us to live in peace with one another,” CAN stated.
The Christian body urged that all forms of aggression, retaliation, and lawlessness should cease, allowing dialogue, understanding, and justice to prevail.
“No meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear, violence, and instability. Therefore, all forms of aggression, retaliation, and lawlessness must cease. Dialogue, understanding, and justice must prevail over conflict and violence,” the statement added.
CAN acknowledged and commended the efforts of the government, security forces, and local vigilante groups who have continued to make sacrifices in attempts to restore order in the affected areas.
“We acknowledge and commend the efforts of the government, our gallant security forces, and local vigilante groups. Their courage and dedication are not unnoticed. However, given the persistence of these challenges, we respectfully urge more proactive, strategic, and sustained measures to decisively end the bloodshed and ensure lasting peace and security for all communities,” it stated.
The association appealed to individuals, faith-based organisations, corporate bodies, and well-meaning Nigerians to support those displaced by the crisis.
“In the spirit of Easter, which calls us to love and compassion, we appeal to all Nigerians to extend support to those displaced by the crisis. Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) urgently need food, medicine, clothing, shelter materials, bedding, and other essentials. By doing so, we become true ambassadors of Christ, fulfilling His command to care for the needy,” it added.
CAN also sympathised with families who lost loved ones and those injured in the attacks.
“To those who have sustained injuries, we extend our deepest sympathies and pray for healing, strength, and full recovery.
“To families who have lost loved ones, we share in your grief. Words may not fully express our condolences, but we stand with you in prayer and solidarity. May God comfort and uphold you in this difficult time.”
The association urged residents of Taraba State, regardless of religious or ethnic background, to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, tolerance, and unity.
It stressed that diversity should not be a source of division but a strength that enriches collective existence.
“Even in the face of these trials, Easter reminds us that hope must not be lost. Just as Christ rose from the dead, we believe Taraba State will rise above its challenges. Let this Easter mark a turning point — a season of reconciliation, healing, and transformation for our state and the nation at large,” the statement concluded.
