Christian Council of Nigeria expresses grief over Kebbi schoolgirls kidnapping, Kwara attack, others

…Calls for urgent govt action

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has expressed deep grief and concern over the recent surge in insecurity across the nation, particularly the kidnapping of schoolgirls in Kebbi State, violent attack in Kwara State and unending terrorism in the land.

RT. Rev. Onyemara & Most Rev. Onuoha

In a press release, Jointly signed by The Most Reverend David Onuoha, President and The Rt. Rev. Dr. Evans Onyemara, General Secretary of CCN condemned the abduction of 25 female students from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State, and the killing of the school’s vice-principal, Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku, who attempted to protect his students.

On other killings the council stated, “We equally express concern over the recent attack on worshippers in Kwara State, a violent incident that further highlights the rising insecurity threatening peaceful gatherings and religious communities.

“While reports of a mass schoolgirl kidnapping in St. Mary’s School, a Catholic institution in the Papiri Community of Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, an unconfirmed number of students and staff have been kidnapped.

“The Council stands in solidarity with the grieving families, the school community, and the entire people of Kebbi State during this dark and distressing period,” the release stated.

The President, Secretary and other CCN Council members

The CCN a fellowship of churches dedicated to promoting Christian unity, social justice, and national transformation in Nigeria further called on the Federal Government to strengthen surveillance, reinforce school security, and adopt proactive measures to prevent future attacks, emphasizing that protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians is a constitutional duty and moral responsibility.

The CCN has also commended the courage and dedication of security personnel and urged churches across Nigeria to hold intercessory services for the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls and to stand spiritually with the affected communities.

Most Rev. Onuoha

The council stated, “CCN calls upon all churches across Nigeria, regardless of denomination, to rise in unified prayer for the nation let every congregation hold intercessory services, lift the families in sorrow, and stand spiritually with the communities affected by these tragic events.

“In times like this, the church must be a beacon of hope, compassion and moral courage. We urge Christians and all people of goodwill to remain steadfast in faith, believing that God hears the cries of the innocent and will bring restoration.”

Given, CCN has reaffirmed its readiness to work with government authorities, civil society, traditional rulers, and interfaith partners to advocate justice, promote peace, and support national efforts aimed at restoring security.

The ecumenical body reiterated to the federal government, “Protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians is a constitutional duty and a moral responsibility that must be carried out with renewed urgency and unwavering commitment.”