‘End insecurity, protect lives, properties – Plateau CAN tasks govt

Plateau State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has called on the state government and other relevant agencies to take bold and decisive steps to restore peace to the state and foster positive development and prosperity for the people.

The Christian organization, which made the call during its maiden leadership retreat held from July 7 to 9, 2026, at the Miango Rest Home in Jos, noted that only an end to insecurity and the protection of lives and property across the state can guarantee prosperity.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the retreat by the State Chairman, Rev. Dr. Dunka Gomwalk, CAN said it was a shame that a state famous for its peace and tranquility could experience decades of unrest, violence, and killings without the government taking steps to put a stop to them.

The retreat, which had the theme “Strategically Positioning CAN on the Plateau for the Future in the Face of Contemporary Challenges,” brought together church leaders, women and youth leaders, coordinators from the 17 local government areas, and other stakeholders.

Expressing concerns that despite efforts by government and security agencies, insecurity had continued to take different dimensions, leaving many communities under constant threat, CAN said it has resolved that the rising spate of attacks in our rural and urban communities must stop, and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and property.

It also encouraged communities to embrace community policing and the setting up of vigilante groups, while calling on the government to provide vulnerable communities with the security support needed to defend themselves.

It further demanded the prompt arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of attacks while emphasizing that the enforcement of existing laws regulating the activities of hawkers, scrap metal scavengers, motorcycle and tricycle operators.

Also speaking on internally displaced persons, CAN condemned attempts to forcefully seize community lands and tasked the government to recover such lands and ensure the rebuilding and resettlement of affected communities.

“The church has always been one and will continue to speak with one voice on issues that concern the state and the church,” the body stated and pledged to continue working with the government and people of other faiths to promote peaceful coexistence and good governance.

‘End insecurity, protect lives, properties – Plateau CAN tasks govt