The Plateau State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared that a “Christian genocide” is underway across the country, citing widespread killings, persecution, and displacement of Christians in several regions.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting of CAN, held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at The Covenant Word Christian Centre International, Jos. The communiqué was read by the State Chairman, Rev. Dr. Dunka Gomwalk.
After extensive deliberations on issues affecting the Church, Plateau State, and the nation, the Council raised several key observations and resolutions.
CAN expressed deep concern over what it described as the ongoing genocide against Christians in Nigeria, noting that verifiable evidence, including mass burial sites and detailed victim records, exists across Plateau and other states.
“The State Executive Council affirms with a loud voice that there is a Christian genocide taking place in Nigeria,” the communiqué stated, adding that memorial sites would soon be erected in Plateau State to honor victims of the violence.
The Council also condemned threats to the lives of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, Barr. Solomon Mwantiri, and other Christian advocates who have spoken out against the killings. It called on both the Federal and State Governments to act decisively to protect lives and properties, irrespective of religion or ethnicity.
“Justice, fairness, and accountability remain the foundation for national peace and unity,” Rev. Gomwalk emphasized, urging Christians to uphold peace, prayer, and constructive advocacy despite ongoing challenges.
The Council commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for fostering unity through initiatives like the Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival, emphasizing that lasting peace can only be achieved through strengthened unity within the Church and among people of diverse faiths.
CAN further raised alarm over new tax and repatriation policies of the Federal Ministry of Interior affecting missionaries, calling for their immediate exemption. The Council stressed that missionaries are not profit-oriented and should be protected under the principles of freedom of religion and belief.
Addressing the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs), the Council urged the government to ensure their safe return to ancestral homes, provide adequate security, and empower affected communities to rebuild their livelihoods.
As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, CAN cautioned Christians to place unity and the integrity of the Church above partisan interests.
“Politics will come and go, but the Church remains,” the communiqué stated, urging believers to demonstrate maturity, love, and restraint in political engagements.
Highlighting the growing issue of unemployment and youth vulnerability, CAN called for joint efforts between the Church, government, and private sector to create opportunities for skills development and empowerment, stressing that youth engagement is key to Plateau’s moral, spiritual, and economic stability.
The Council commended the peaceful conduct of the recent State Executive elections and encouraged similar transparency and brotherly love in the forthcoming Local Government CAN elections.
CAN also condemned the rise in substance abuse across Plateau State, calling for stricter regulation of taverns and illicit drug distribution. It urged collaboration between government, community, and Church leaders to curb the menace.
The communiqué concluded by urging Christian leaders and faithful across the state to remain steadfast, prayerful, and united in building a peaceful and prosperous Plateau and Nigeria.
