The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the horrific attack that took place on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026.
The attack happened in the Angwan Rukuba, Gari Ya Waye area of Jos North, Plateau State.
CAN noted that Palm Sunday is meant to be a day of peace, hope, and reflection, but instead it became a day of bloodshed for the people of Nigeria.
DAILY POST reports that innocent Nigerians, men, women, and children, were hunted and killed in cold blood. CAN added, “Let us be clear: this is not just tragic; it is unacceptable.”
Armed men, reportedly in significant numbers, moved into a civilian community disguised in uniforms resembling those of security forces and opened fire on defenceless people.
Lives were cut short in minutes. Families have been shattered. A community has been traumatised.
“We mourn. We grieve. But we must also speak the truth. How did we get here? How is it that people can no longer feel safe in their own homes? How is it that, even on a sacred day, communities are left exposed to such terror?” a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN President, said.
It added, “Nigerians are tired of mourning. Nigerians are tired of statements. Nigerians want to see action. Those responsible for this atrocity must be found, arrested, and made to face justice swiftly and decisively. Anything less will only deepen the sense that life in our country is no longer protected.
“The use of fake or imitation military uniforms by these attackers is particularly alarming. It strikes at the very heart of public trust and must be thoroughly investigated. Our security institutions must not only respond; they must stay ahead of these threats.
“We acknowledge the efforts of the Plateau State Government so far. But let it be said clearly: temporary measures are not enough. The people of Plateau, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve lasting security, not periodic reassurance.
“To our Christian faithful across the nation, I speak to you as we walk through this solemn Holy Week. Be prayerful, but also be vigilant. As you prepare for Good Friday solemnities and the Stations of the Cross (in some denominations), and as churches gather for Easter Eve vigils and night services, take deliberate steps to protect yourselves and your congregations. Stay alert. Work with security agencies and local authorities. Look out for one another.
“Faith must remain strong, but it must also be paired with wisdom. We will not allow fear to silence our worship. But neither will we ignore the dangers around us. Holy Week reminds us that light will always overcome darkness. Yet, let us be honest, Nigeria is passing through a dark and painful moment. This must be a turning point.
“A nation cannot keep bleeding like this and expect to move forward. We owe the dead justice. We owe the living protection. And we owe our future a country where no community wakes up to gunfire on a sacred day.”
Nigeria cannot keep bleeding’ — CAN reacts to Palm Sunday attack in Jos North
