The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) calls for greater responsibility, empathy, and professionalism in security communication following the confirmation of an abduction incident at Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a statement reviewed by Mediaplusng.com, CAN acknowledges the challenges security agencies face in verifying incidents, especially in remote areas. However, the association stresses that such difficulties do not justify lapses in public communication, particularly on sensitive issues involving mass abductions and threats to human lives.
CAN expresses concern over the initial public dismissal of reports surrounding the Kajuru incident, describing it as troubling and avoidable. According to the association, the early response created confusion, heightened fear, and unfairly cast doubt on the credibility of worshippers, clergy, families, and eyewitnesses who raised the alarm. CAN insists that in matters of this gravity, official communication must reflect empathy and seriousness.
Mediaplusng.com reports that while CAN understands the need to prevent public panic, it warns that caution must not be conveyed in ways that suggest denial or indifference. The group notes that statements from senior security officials carry significant influence and should therefore be guided by thorough verification, sensitivity, and an awareness of their impact on public trust and national stability.
The association welcomes the subsequent confirmation of the abduction by the Nigeria Police Force and commends the Inspector-General of Police for ordering the deployment of operational and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities. CAN describes these actions as necessary steps toward restoring confidence and addressing the security situation on ground.
However, CAN emphasizes that security responses must go beyond deployments and arrests. It calls for a more disciplined, people-centred approach to crisis communication that respects the pain of victims and affected communities. According to the association, clear, compassionate, and timely communication is essential to maintaining trust between citizens and security institutions.
CAN also urges all security agencies to strengthen coordination and improve verification processes, ensuring that credible reports from communities are treated with urgency and seriousness. The association warns against both dismissive and sensational narratives, stressing that misinformation at either extreme can undermine rescue efforts and worsen public anxiety.
Beyond the Kajuru incident, CAN calls on federal and state governments to confront Nigeria’s persistent insecurity with renewed urgency. It notes that repeated attacks and abductions continue to endanger lives, disrupt worship and daily activities, and erode public confidence in the ability of authorities to protect citizens.
The association makes a strong appeal for the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted persons. CAN says the safety and dignity of innocent citizens must remain paramount and urges security agencies to intensify operational, intelligence, and strategic efforts to secure the victims’ safe return.
As a national faith-based body, CAN reaffirms its commitment to peace, justice, and the defence of human dignity. The association pledges continued solidarity with affected communities and constructive engagement with authorities in the collective pursuit of accountability, safety, and lasting security across Nigeria.
