CAN DEMANDS PROBE OF VIRAL VIDEO THREATENING ‘INFIDELS’ IN ENUGU, JOS

The Christian Association of Nigeria has called for an urgent investigation into a viral video allegedly showing youths chanting threats against Christians in Enugu and Jos.

In a statement on Tuesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the threats as unacceptable and urged security agencies to establish the facts and prosecute anyone found responsible for inciting violence.

The footage reportedly shows young people taking part in a marching exercise while making threats against Christian worshippers. Participants wore uniforms associated with the First Aid Group of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah, although the organisation’s leadership has reportedly disowned the video.

Okoh acknowledged the reported denial but stressed that it could not replace an independent investigation. He cautioned against drawing conclusions about the organisation’s involvement before the facts are established.

CAN urged the Department of State Services, the police and other security agencies to determine when and where the footage was recorded, identify the participants and investigate anyone who may have organised, encouraged or funded the activity.

The association also expressed concern about the apparent involvement of children and young people, warning against exposing them to messages that promote religious hatred.

Okoh called on security agencies to assess the credibility of the threats and take appropriate steps to protect communities and places of worship.

He urged religious leaders to reject teachings and activities that encourage hostility towards people of other faiths, saying young Nigerians should be taught to respect human life and religious differences.

The CAN president appealed to Christians to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, warning that retaliation could worsen tensions and put innocent people at risk.

He maintained that every Nigerian deserves equal protection under the law and must be able to worship without fear of violence or intimidation.