Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria has called on security agencies to investigate a viral video showing youths chanting threats of violence against Christians in Enugu and Jos, warning that the incident must not be dismissed as harmless youthful exuberance.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the call in a statement on Tuesday, urging authorities to identify those involved and prosecute anyone found responsible for inciting religious violence.
The video, which circulated on social media on Monday, showed youths wearing uniforms associated with the First Aid Group of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) during a marching exercise while chanting threats against Christians.
One of the participants was heard calling for an AK-47 rifle and threatening to shoot people described as infidels in Enugu and Jos.
Reacting to the footage, Okoh described the threats as alarming and unacceptable, insisting that Nigerians should be able to practise their faith without fear of violence or intimidation.
“The threats are chilling and utterly unacceptable. No Nigerian should have to fear for their life because of their faith or face the prospect of violence simply for gathering to worship God. Such threats must not be dismissed as mere chants or treated as harmless displays of youthful exuberance,” CAN said.
The association urged the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to establish where and when the video was recorded, identify those involved and determine whether anyone organised or facilitated the activity.
Okoh also expressed concern over the apparent involvement of children and young people, warning that exposure to messages promoting religious hatred required urgent attention.
He called on security agencies to assess the credibility of the threats and take appropriate steps to protect Christian communities and places of worship in Enugu, Jos and other parts of the country.
CAN acknowledged reports that JIBWIS leadership had disavowed the video but stressed that the denial should not replace an independent investigation into the incident.
“We note the reported disavowal of the video by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS). We recognise the importance of establishing the facts before drawing conclusions about institutional involvement.
“However, the denial of responsibility by any organisation cannot replace an independent investigation into the identities of those involved, the origin of the video and the circumstances surrounding the chants,” Okoh said.
The association further urged authorities to investigate whether individuals or groups encouraged, financed or facilitated the threats, adding that accountability should extend beyond those seen in the footage.
Okoh called on religious leaders to reject teachings and activities that promote hatred against people of other faiths, while urging young Nigerians to respect human life and the dignity of fellow citizens.
“Nigeria has endured too much violence, bloodshed and distrust to treat threats of this nature lightly. Allowing such conduct to go unchallenged would send a dangerous message that threats against citizens on religious grounds can be made without consequence. The government must demonstrate, through concrete action, that such intimidation will not be tolerated,” he said.
The CAN president urged Christians to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while investigations continue, warning against retaliation that could heighten tensions and endanger innocent people.
He reiterated the association’s commitment to religious freedom, justice and peaceful coexistence, insisting that every Nigerian was entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of religious affiliation.
“The government must act swiftly, investigate thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable. The safety of Nigerians and the freedom to worship must never be negotiable,” Okoh added.
