Christian Council of Nigeria Condemns Kwara Massacre, Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Rural Communities

Press Release

Abuja, Nigeria – 6 February 2026 –

The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) condemns in the strongest terms the recent massacre of more than 170 people in Kaiama, Kwara State, describing the attack as a devastating failure of Nigeria’s security and intelligence apparatus. The Council stresses that such violence highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable rural communities across the nation.

According to reports, the attackers targeted Woro and Nuku villages, leaving homes destroyed, bodies strewn across streets, and dozens of residents abducted. Amnesty International has described the incident as a “stunning security failure,” underscoring the broader pattern of violence affecting north-central and north-western Nigeria.

“The lives of rural Nigerians cannot continue to be expendable. The government must act now to prevent further atrocities.” – His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. David C. C. Onuoha, National President, CCN

CCN Leadership Statement

His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. David C. C. Onuoha, National President, and His Lordship, The Rt Rev. Evans Onyemara, PhD, General Secretary of CCN, expressed alarm at the scale and brutality of the attack, highlighting the failure of early warning mechanisms and intelligence response.

“The Kaiama tragedy is a painful reminder that security lapses have deadly consequences. Every Nigerian life is sacred. Urgent action is non-negotiable.” – His Lordship, The Rt Rev. Evans Onyemara, PhD

The leaders reiterated that the Federal Government, security agencies, and intelligence services must:

• Strengthen intelligence gathering and early warning systems to prevent attacks.
• Increase military and police presence in high-risk areas.
• Implement a coordinated security strategy that proactively protects rural communities.
• Engage local leaders and communities in security planning and awareness programs.

The Council extends condolences to the families of the victims and prays for divine comfort and strength for all affected communities. CCN emphasizes that every Nigerian life matters, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or location, and urges the government to fulfill its constitutional duty to protect citizens from violence.

About Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN):
The CCN is Nigeria’s foremost ecumenical Christian body, advocating for justice, peace, and unity across the nation. It provides moral guidance, champions human rights, and engages with government and civil society to address national crises, including insecurity, poverty, and social inequality.

Contacts:
Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles
Correspondence Desk, Christian Council of Nigeria
Email: maarbros21@gmail.com