By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

The Christian Association of Nigeia (CAN), 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has strongly condemned the recent killing of 16 travellers in Uromi, Edo State, describing it as a stain on the collective conscience of the nation.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, Northern CAN expressed deep sorrow over the gruesome attack and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased.

?The pain and anguish their families and loved ones must endure are unbearable, and we can only imagine the depth of their suffering,? the statement issued on Sunday read. ?May God grant them comfort, strength, and solace during this darkest of times.?

The association further warned against retaliatory attacks, urging Nigerians to resist calls for vengeance that could escalate tensions and lead to further bloodshed. ?Revenge is not a solution but a recipe for further chaos and destruction. It is the innocent who will suffer again, and the cycle of violence will only continue to worsen,? CAN emphasized.

Beyond condemnation, Northern CAN urged security agencies, the Edo State Government, and the Federal Government to swiftly investigate the attack and ensure that justice is served. The statement called for a more robust response to insecurity across the country, stressing that criminal acts must not be tied to ethnic or religious identities, as such narratives only deepen divisions.

The attack has sparked renewed calls for stronger security measures across Nigeria?s highways, where travellers frequently fall victim to kidnappers and armed bandits. In recent years, the country has witnessed a surge in violent crimes, including banditry, communal clashes, and insurgent activities, leaving many Nigerians fearful for their safety.

While security forces have intensified operations to curb the menace, incidents like the Uromi killings highlight the continued challenges in tackling insecurity. Religious and community leaders have repeatedly called for unity among Nigerians, urging citizens to reject narratives that seek to divide them along ethnic and religious lines.

As the nation mourns the victims of this latest tragedy, Northern CAN emphasized the need for collective efforts in ensuring peace and security. ?We weep with you, we mourn with you, and we pray with you for an end to this senseless violence,? the statement concluded.

For grieving families in Edo State and beyond, justice and security remain paramount. Nigerians now look to their leaders to take decisive steps in breaking the cycle of violence and ensuring that such tragedies do not become the norm.

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