“Enough is Enough”: Northern CAN Urges Communities to Organize for Self-Defense Ahead of Easter

Amid a surge in regional instability and recurring attacks, the Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a stern call to action, urging its members to take “proactive steps” to protect their communities during the upcoming Easter celebrations.

The appeal comes as Christian leaders express growing frustration over persistent insecurity in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The association is challenging its members to move beyond fear and prioritize vigilance and community organization.

“These Killers Are Not Spirits”
In a candid interview with PUNCH, Joseph Hayab, Chairman of Northern CAN, emphasized that the perpetrators of regional violence are not invincible. He argued that the cycle of torment—which often spikes during religious holidays—will only end when communities decide to push back.

“These killers are not spirits; they are human beings,” Hayab stated. “Unless and until all of us start organizing ourselves to chase those who have been chasing us, they will torment us for the next 200 years. Every church leader should tell his members that enough is enough of this rubbish.”

Hayab noted that since 2009, terrorists have consistently targeted Christmas and Easter periods to deny Christians the joy of celebration. His message was clear: the community will no longer go into hiding or allow fear to dictate their religious observance.

A Call to Security Agencies
While advocating for community-level vigilance, Northern CAN also placed a formal demand on the Nigerian government and security forces.

The association urged agencies to:
Intensify Patrols: Increase the presence of personnel around large religious gatherings.
Preventive Intelligence: Act on threats before they manifest into attacks.
Accountability: Address the “inaction and negligence” that critics say have characterized the federal response to recent violence.

Context of the Unrest
The call for self-defense follows a string of recent tragedies that have left the region on edge. In Plateau State, at least 28 people were recently killed in coordinated attacks in Jos, while communities in Southern Kaduna continue to face frequent raids.
Christian leaders have become increasingly vocal in their criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, alleging that the government’s failure to secure these areas has left citizens with no choice but to look after their own safety.

Observing Easter with Vigilance
Despite the high-tension environment, CAN encouraged its members to proceed with Easter festivities. However, the association maintained that “peaceful observation” must now go hand-in-hand with a high state of security consciousness. The message to the faithful is twofold: celebrate the season, but do so with a defensive mindset that ensures the safety of the congregation.