Nigeria’s Christian Association has condemned the attack on a church in Eruku, Kwara State, which left several worshippers dead and others abducted during a prayer gathering.
The assault targeted the Christ Apostolic Church in the town of Eruku, triggering renewed concerns about rising insecurity in religious communities across the country.
In a statement, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), described the incident as “heartbreaking,” saying it highlighted the vulnerability of Christian worshippers in certain regions.
“We stand with the families who have lost loved ones, those injured, and the abducted,” he said. “Their pain is our collective pain, and no community of faith should ever have to endure such trauma.”
CAN said the attack fits into a pattern of repeated violence against Christian populations an issue it has raised repeatedly with government officials and international partners. Despite these warnings, the organisation said responses have often dismissed concerns about targeted attacks.
The association called on security agencies to take immediate action to locate the abducted worshippers and apprehend those responsible. It also urged authorities to conduct a transparent investigation to identify security failures surrounding the incident.
According to CAN, affected families should receive urgent medical and psychological support, while places of worship in high-risk communities must be given stronger protection.
The organisation appealed for calm, warning against retaliatory actions. “Our focus must remain on justice, healing and peace,” the statement said.
CAN said it will continue monitoring the situation and working with authorities to ensure justice for victims and improved security for Christian communities nationwide.