The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has voiced its concern regarding the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, which has led to the Loss of numerous Lives, Destruction of Infrastructure, and exacerbated the Humanitarian Crisis in the Region.
CAN is also Apprehensive about the Implications of this Conflict on Nigeria and Nigerian Pilgrims.
In a statement released in Abuja, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh called for an Immediate Cessation of Hostilities and Violence between Israel and Palestine.
The Christian Organization emphasized its belief in the Sanctity of Human life and the Principles of Justice and Peace, as upheld by the Christian Faith, urging all Parties Involved to engage in Dialogue and seek Diplomatic Solutions.
CAN expressed Distress over the recent Surprise attack by a Militant group on Israeli Citizens, resulting in the Tragic loss of numerous Lives and the abduction of Several Individuals, including Women and Children.
Archbishop Okoh noted that this Event undermines the Pursuit of Global Peace.
Given that many Nigerian Christians embark on Pilgrimages to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and other Sacred Sites, the ongoing Conflict in the Region raises Concerns about the Safety and Well-being of Nigerian Pilgrims.
As a Precaution, CAN recommend the Suspension of the Airlifting of Pilgrims until Normalcy is restored in the Area.
CAN firmly Condemns acts of Violence that Threaten the Lives of Innocent Individuals, regardless of their Nationality or Religious background.
While recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense, the Organization stressed the Importance of Proportionality and the avoidance of harm to Innocent Civilians in any Military response.
CAN extends its Deepest Condolences to all those who have Suffered the Loss of their loved ones in these Incidents.
Furthermore, CAN emphasized the significant Implications of the ongoing Conflict for Nigeria’s Faith Communities.
The Organization called on Religious Leaders and Communities in Nigeria to actively Promote understanding, compassion, and peaceful coexistence among diverse religious groups.
They urged against allowing this Conflict to Deepen divisions or Inflame Religious Tensions within Nigeria.
CAN offers Prayers for the repose of the Souls of those Killed in the Violent attack and the resultant war, as well as for Reconciliation, healing, and enduring Peace in the Region.
The Organization also called upon the International Community, including the United Nations and relevant Stakeholders, to Intensify their efforts in Facilitating a just and lasting Resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.
