The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the violent attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, where worshippers were reportedly killed and several others abducted during a prayer service.

In a statement issued by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN described the incident as a “heartbreaking assault on peaceful citizens gathered for worship” and a tragic reflection of the escalating insecurity facing Christian communities across the country.

“We stand in solidarity with the families who lost loved ones, with the injured, the abducted, and with the entire Eruku community in their moment of grief,” the statement read. “Their pain is our collective pain, and their trauma is one that no community of faith should ever be forced to endure.”

CAN expressed concern that the Eruku attack fits into a pattern of repeated assaults on vulnerable Christian populations, noting that the organisation has consistently warned both Nigerian authorities and international partners about the trend. Despite official attempts to downplay fears of targeted violence, CAN said the frequency and brutality of such attacks continue to raise national and global alarm.

The association called on security agencies to immediately launch operations to rescue the abducted worshippers and ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and prosecuted. It also demanded a transparent investigation to uncover security lapses surrounding the attack.

“Places of worship must be protected, especially in areas repeatedly exposed to violent threats,” Okoh stated, stressing the need for a long-term national security strategy capable of countering terrorism, banditry and violent extremism.

CAN further urged religious, traditional and community leaders in the area to maintain calm and discourage any form of reprisal, emphasising that the pursuit of justice, healing and peace must remain the priority.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the situation and engaging with authorities to ensure better protection for Christian communities nationwide.