CAN demands a probe of a viral video threatening Christians in Enugu and Jos, urging security agencies to identify those involved and ensure accountability
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on security agencies to investigate a viral video showing youths chanting threats against Christians in Enugu and Jos, warning that the incident should not be dismissed as harmless youthful behaviour.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the call in a statement on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, condemning the alleged threats and urging authorities to prosecute anyone found responsible for inciting religious violence.
The video, which reportedly 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.
According to reports accompanying the footage, some participants made statements advocating attacks on Christians during Sunday worship. One person was reportedly 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,” the statement said.
CAN warned that such statements should not be treated as mere chants or dismissed as youthful exuberance, calling for urgent and decisive action by the authorities.
The association also expressed concern over the apparent involvement of children and young people, saying their exposure to messages promoting religious hatred required urgent attention.
Okoh urged the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to establish where and when the video was recorded, identify those involved and determine whether any individuals or groups organised or facilitated the activity.
He said anyone found culpable should be held accountable in accordance with the law.
The CAN president also 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 elsewhere in the country.
He stressed that Nigerians must be able to attend religious services without fear of being attacked because of their beliefs.
The association’s demand followed reports that the leadership of JIBWIS had disavowed the video.
Okoh acknowledged the reported denial but maintained that it should not replace an independent investigation into the identities of the participants and the circumstances surrounding the footage.
“We recognise the importance of establishing the facts before drawing conclusions about institutional involvement,” he said.
He added that the denial of responsibility by any organisation should not prevent authorities from investigating the origin of the video or determining whether others encouraged, financed or facilitated the alleged threats.
CAN said accountability should extend beyond the individuals seen in the footage if investigations establish that other people were involved.
Okoh called on religious leaders across Nigeria to reject teachings, slogans and activities that promote hatred or violence against people of other faiths.
He urged leaders to teach young people to respect human life and the dignity of fellow citizens, regardless of religious affiliation.
The CAN president warned that Nigeria had endured significant violence and distrust and that threats targeting people because of their faith should be treated seriously.
He said the government needed to demonstrate through concrete action that religious intimidation would not be tolerated.
Okoh also appealed to Christians to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while the investigation proceeds, cautioning against retaliatory actions that could escalate tensions and endanger innocent people.
The video has also prompted calls for an investigation from Amnesty International Nigeria, according to reports surrounding the incident.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom, justice and peaceful coexistence, insisting that every Nigerian was entitled to equal protection under the law.
“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.
