Northern CAN demands justice, probe of terror-financiers in Christmas message

In a powerful Christmas appeal for national restoration, the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has challenged the country’s leadership to transform the festive season into a “decisive turning point.”

The association warned that the nation’s survival depends on a shift toward authentic justice and the total dismantling of the networks that fuel insecurity.

The message, signed by Chairman Rev. Joseph John Hayab and Secretary General Bishop Mohammed Naga, emphasizes that Christmas goes beyond traditional festivities. For Northern CAN, the season offers Nigerians “an opportunity for sober reflection on the moral conscience of the nation and the social direction of our country.”

The association’s primary demand is for the Federal Government to look beyond the frontlines and target the financial engines of the insurgency. They argued that peace is impossible as long as those who fund violence remain anonymous and unpunished.

“Christmas calls the nation to peace, justice, compassion and respect for the sanctity of human life,” the group stated. “It reminds us that a just and secure society is built on moral courage, compassion and collective responsibility.”

READ ALSO: EFCC files 16-count money laundering charge against ex-AGF, Malami, son, employee

While praising the Armed Forces for their bravery, Northern CAN highlighted the deep trauma still felt in many communities: “The continued existence of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping has inflicted immense pain on individuals, families and communities, leaving scars that many may never fully recover from.”

A significant portion of the message was dedicated to Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. The association lauded his decision to grant clemency to Sunday Jackson, a farmer who had previously faced a death sentence following a violent confrontation on his land.

Northern CAN viewed the initial conviction as a failure of the legal system and described the Governor’s intervention as a win for common sense and equity.

“The grant of clemency brings relief and affirms the principle that self-defence in the face of mortal danger should not be criminalised while terrorists and their enablers walk freely in our society,” the statement added.

Despite the “immense pain” and economic hurdles currently facing Nigerians, the association expressed gratitude for the spirit of charity seen throughout the holidays. They encouraged a continued commitment to the rule of law and national unity.

– For Government: Conduct “thorough, transparent and sincere” investigations into terror financiers.

– For Security Agencies: Maintain steadfastness in the newly formalized fight against bandits (now designated as terrorists).

– For Governors: Follow the example of Adamawa by reviewing cases of potential miscarriages of justice.

– For Citizens: Pray for the nation and support leadership while remaining law-abiding.

The association concluded with a vision of hope for a fractured nation: “As Nigerians celebrate Christmas, let us support our leaders, pray for the healing of our land and work collectively for a safer, more just and more united Nigeria.”

The post Northern CAN demands justice, probe of terror-financiers in Christmas message appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from Ripples Nigeria.