CAN Demands Probe Into Video Of Youths Threatening Christians

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has known as on safety companies to analyze a viral video displaying youths chanting threats of violence towards Christians in Enugu and Jos.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the decision in a press release on Tuesday.

He warned that the threats should not be dismissed as innocent youthful exuberance.

He known as for the prosecution of anybody discovered accountable for inciting non secular violence.

The video, which circulated on social media on Monday, confirmed youths carrying uniforms related to the First Aid Group of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) collaborating in a marching train whereas advocating assaults on Christians throughout Sunday worship.

In the footage, a person’s voice was heard calling for AK-47 rifle and threatening to open fireplace on folks described as infidels in Enugu and Jos.

Reacting to the video, Okoh described the threats as alarming and unacceptable, saying no Nigerian ought to face violence due to their non secular beliefs.

“The threats are chilling and utterly unacceptable. No Nigerian should have to fear for their life because of their faith or face the prospect of violence simply for gathering to worship God. Such threats must not be dismissed as mere chants or treated as harmless displays of youthful exuberance,” he mentioned.

Okoh additionally expressed concern over the involvement of kids and younger folks within the chants. He warned that their publicity to messages selling non secular hatred required pressing consideration.

He mentioned CAN had known as on the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and different related safety companies to analyze the incident, set up the place and when the video was recorded, establish these concerned and decide whether or not others organised or facilitated the exercise.

The CAN president additionally urged safety companies to evaluate the credibility of the threats and take acceptable measures to guard Christian communities and locations of worship in Enugu, Jos and different elements of the nation.

He mentioned Nigerians should have the ability to attend non secular companies with out worry of assault or intimidation.

Meanwhile, JIBWIS National Chairman, Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau, has reportedly denied the organisation’s involvement within the video and condemned the threats.

It additionally known as on the DSS, the police and different safety companies to analyze the footage.

Okoh acknowledged the denial however mentioned it mustn’t substitute an unbiased investigation.

“We note the reported disavowal of the video by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS). We recognise the importance of establishing the facts before drawing conclusions about institutional involvement.

“However, the denial of responsibility by any organisation cannot replace an independent investigation into the identities of those involved, the origin of the video and the circumstances surrounding the chants,” he mentioned.

CAN additional known as for an investigation into whether or not any people or teams inspired, financed or facilitated the alleged threats, arguing that accountability ought to lengthen past these seen within the footage.

Okoh urged non secular leaders throughout the nation to reject teachings, slogans and actions that promote hatred or violence towards folks of different faiths. He additionally known as for younger folks to be taught to respect human life and the dignity of others somewhat than view fellow residents as enemies due to their non secular beliefs.

“Nigeria has endured too much violence, bloodshed and distrust to treat threats of this nature lightly. Allowing such conduct to go unchallenged would send a dangerous message that threats against citizens on religious grounds can be made without consequence. The government must demonstrate, through concrete action, that such intimidation will not be tolerated,” he mentioned.

The CAN president urged Christians to stay calm, vigilant and law-abiding. He warned towards retaliatory actions that might escalate tensions and endanger harmless lives.

Amnesty International Nigeria and different non secular organisations have additionally known as for an investigation into the video.