The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to investigate a viral video allegedly showing a young man leading a group of boys in chants threatening attacks on Christians during Sunday worship in Enugu and Jos.
The association urged the authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible, warning that threats of religious violence must not be dismissed as mere chants.
In a statement, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, condemned the alleged incitement to religious violence, insisting that Nigerians must be able to gather for worship without fear of attacks on account of their religious beliefs.
Okoh expressed particular concern over the apparent involvement of children and young people in the chants, warning that exposing them to messages of hatred could have serious consequences for national unity and peaceful coexistence.
“The possibility that young people are being exposed to or encouraged to embrace such hatred raises serious concerns that must not be ignored,” he said.
CAN called on security agencies to establish the time and location of the recording, identify those involved and determine the individuals or groups that may have organised or facilitated the activity.
It also urged the authorities to assess the potential security implications of the video and strengthen protection for Christian communities and places of worship in Enugu, Jos and other parts of the country.
While acknowledging the reported disavowal of the video by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), the association said such a denial should not preclude an independent investigation.
“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,” it said.
The association further urged investigators to determine whether any individuals or groups sponsored, encouraged or facilitated the alleged threats, stressing that anyone found culpable should be prosecuted without favour or discrimination.
It also called on religious leaders to reject teachings and activities that promote hatred or violence against people of other faiths.
According to CAN, young Nigerians must not be exposed to messages portraying fellow citizens as enemies because of their religious beliefs.
The association warned that failure to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable could embolden religious extremists and further undermine peaceful coexistence in a country already facing insecurity and deep-seated distrust.
“Allowing such conduct to go unchallenged would send a dangerous message that threats against citizens on religious grounds can be made without consequence,” it said.
CAN, however, urged Christians to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while the investigation proceeds, cautioning against retaliatory actions that could endanger lives and deepen religious divisions.
Reaffirming its commitment to religious freedom, justice and peaceful coexistence, the association maintained that every Nigerian was entitled to equal protection under the law, irrespective of religious affiliation.
It urged the government to move beyond condemnation by establishing the facts and ensuring accountability, stressing that the safety of citizens and their freedom to worship must not be left at the mercy of religious extremists.
