The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has requested the Federal and Nasarawa state government to ensure the immediate rescue of Bishop Joseph Masin, kidnapped at his home by some gunmen.
Masin who is the CAN Chairman for Nasarawa state was kidnapped last Wednesday night by some gunmen who stormed his residence in Bukan-Sidi, Lafia metropolis.
The National Leadership of the Christian body, in a statement by its General Secretary, Barr. Joseph Daramola, on Friday in Abuja vowed not to accept losing another state chairman like the late CAN Chairman, Rev. Lawan Andimi, in Adamawa State: “who was gruesomely murdered by terrorists while our security agencies appeared powerless, helpless and de-robbed of their armor”.
It also called for immediate release of Leah Sharibu and all Nigerians in the captivity of terrorists and kidnappers.
CAN said in its statement, “Since we have no Police of our own and we are trying as much as possible to avoid chaotic situations, we are placing a demand on the Federal Government and the Nasarawa State Government to ensure the safety and immediate release of Bishop Masin before it is too late.
“It is disheartening, disappointing and reprehensible, how terrorists, herdsmen, kidnappers and bandits have been operating in the country, killing and maiming innocent citizens unabated.
“This is totally unacceptable and demeaning to the prowess of this great country which is generally styled as the Giant of Africa. It is only in Nigeria that we are having mass burials when we are not in a civil war.
“This kind of non-responsive situation can easily lead to a breakdown of law and order and must be consciously avoided by a positive responsiveness of our leaders.
“Just a few days ago, some hoodlums in the guise of Fulani herdsmen invaded some predominantly Christian communities in Kaduna State, killing the innocent people and up till now, no one has been brought to book.
“Everyone knows that it is the primary responsibility of government anywhere in the world to protect the lives and property of its citizens, but this has become history in Nigeria. This should not be.”
The suspected gunmen have however contacted the kidnapped Bishop’s family demanding for N20m ransom.
