YOWICAN to Tinubu: Act Now on Killings, Restore Confidence in Security Agencie
The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take urgent action to stop recurring attacks on Christian communities across the country. The group called for major reforms in the security system to restore public trust and ensure justice.
The appeal was made during the CRC–N National Youth Fellowship Convention in Donga, Taraba State. National Secretary of YOWICAN, Eld. Hon. Bako Adashu Elijah, addressed journalists alongside YOWICAN leaders from Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, and the North East.
According to a statement signed by Elijah, Christian communities in the Middle Belt and North-East have suffered repeated killings, kidnappings, and destruction of villages without adequate government response. He reminded government officials that the Constitution mandates the protection of lives and welfare of citizens.
The group also reacted to international concerns about alleged genocide in Nigeria. They urged the government to treat such comments as a wake-up call, not an attack on national sovereignty.
YOWICAN cited multiple attacks in states including Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Taraba, and Adamawa, where thousands have been killed and villages displaced. They also referenced the killing of Deborah Samuel in Sokoto and the continued captivity of Leah Sharibu as reminders of religious intolerance and lack of justice.
The group expressed frustration over what it called the government’s slow and ineffective response, noting that repeated statements of condemnation have not resulted in real action.
They demanded an overhaul of the security leadership, accountability for offenders, and justice for victims. YOWICAN also cautioned against integrating repentant Boko Haram members into the armed forces, warning it could put citizens at risk.
The Christian youths called for fairness and inclusiveness in political leadership, stressing that no religion or region should dominate others.
Reaffirming their commitment to peace, they pledged support for efforts to restore justice and security across the country. Elijah emphasized that leadership is temporary, but history will remember those who remained silent in difficult times.