The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the highest hierarchy of Christians in the country, expressed solidarity with Nigerians during this period of hardship. While defending their right to protest, CAN urged Nigerians to postpone the planned action on August 1 and give President Bola Tinubu more time to address their grievances.
In a strongly worded statement titled “Planned Protests: CAN Stands in Solidarity with Nigerians,” the Christian leaders acknowledged the widespread pain, anger, and frustration that many Nigerians are experiencing. They emphasized the severe difficulties families face daily as they struggle to afford necessities and sustain their livelihoods.
CAN highlighted the importance of upholding the constitutional rights of every Nigerian to peacefully protest and express their grievances. “The right to assemble and voice discontent is a cornerstone of our democracy and must be protected and respected by all,” the statement read. They highlighted that peaceful protests are a powerful tool for civic engagement, allowing the populace to communicate their concerns and hold leaders accountable.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, signed the statement and expressed concern about the anxiety related to the impending protests. He pointed out the volatile experiences in countries like Kenya and Pakistan as cautionary tales. Reflecting on recent history, he cited the #ENDSARS and #RevolutionNow protests, which, despite genuine grievances, were marred by tragic incidents. Miscreants hijacked these protests, leading to widespread looting, property destruction, and the unfortunate loss of lives. These experiences, he said, demonstrated that mass demonstrations could quickly descend into chaos if not properly managed.
In light of the planned protests set to begin on August 1, CAN urged Nigerians to consider alternative means of expressing their grievances. The statement recommended giving the government more time to address pressing concerns and suggested exploring other legal avenues that would not allow hoodlums to hijack the exercise to destroy national assets or endanger lives and properties. “Dialogue, petitions, and town hall meetings are viable options that can yield positive results without the risk of disorder,” CAN stated.
CAN also called on the government to reduce the cost of governance and expedite efforts to alleviate hardships. The opulent lifestyle of political office holders must be addressed to demonstrate the sincerity of those in government and improve the living conditions of the people. The statement also emphasized the urgent need for the government to implement the newly approved national minimum wage to provide immediate relief to struggling families.
Furthermore, CAN highlighted the necessity of specific measures to end kidnappings, banditry, and mass killings plaguing various parts of the country. “The security and well-being of every Nigerian should be paramount, and urgent action is required to restore peace and order,” the statement read.
The association called for the government to deepen its consultations with stakeholders, including religious leaders, to create a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to problem-solving. CAN believes that by working together, sustainable solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people can be devised.
In their statement, CAN urged Nigerians to remember the words of Jesus Christ: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). They emphasized that the pursuit of positive change should be carried out with a spirit of peace, love, and unity. “Our strength lies in our ability to come together, support one another, and work collectively toward a better Nigeria,” CAN asserted. They prayed for wisdom and discernment for leaders, resilience and hope for citizens, and divine intervention to guide the country through these difficult times.
