By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Christians across Taraba state and people of goodwill has been call upon to embrace peaceful co-existence irrespective of religious or ethnic background to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, tolerance, and unity.
Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State Chapter, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Williams Peter Awoshiri, made the call in his Easter message to Taraba State Christians.
“Our diversity should never be a source of division or conflict, but rather a strength that enriches our collective existence. We must learn to live together in harmony, recognizing the dignity of every human life as created in the image of God.
“It is with a deeply burdened heart that I address the unfortunate and painful realities confronting parts of our dear State.
He strongly and unequivocally condemn the ongoing violence, killings, and destruction of lives and properties in Southern Taraba, particularly in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas.
“The continuous shedding of innocent blood is both tragic and unacceptable. It is a direct contradiction to the will of God, who values every human life and calls us to live in peace with one another.
“No meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear, violence, and instability. Therefore, all forms of aggression, retaliation, and lawlessness must cease.
“Dialogue, understanding, and justice must prevail over conflict and violence.
He acknowledge and commend the efforts of the Government, gallant security forces, and the local vigilante groups for their continued sacrifices in attempts to restore order and peace in the affected areas.
“Their courage and dedication are not unnoticed. However, given the persistence of these challenges, we respectfully urge that more proactive, strategic, and sustained measures be implemented to decisively end the bloodshed and ensure lasting peace and security for all communities.
The CAN Chairman appeal to individuals, faith-based organizations, corporate bodies, and all well-meaning Nigerians to extend generous support to brothers and sisters who have been displaced by these crises.
“The Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are in urgent need of assistance. Let us come together to provide food, medicine, clothing, shelter materials, bedding, and other essential supplies. In doing so, we become true ambassadors of Christ, fulfilling His command to care for the needy and vulnerable among us.
To those who have sustained injuries as a result of these unfortunate events, we extend our deepest sympathies. We pray that the healing power of God will rest upon you, granting you strength, restoration, and complete recovery in body, mind, and spirit.
He sympathize with families who lost their loved ones and share in grief and sorrow.
“Words may not be sufficient to express the depth of our condolences, but we stand with you in prayer and solidarity. May the God of all comfort console your hearts, grant you peace in your pain, and uphold you in this difficult time. We also pray for the happy repose of the souls of the departed, that through the mercy of God, they may rest in perfect and eternal peace.
“Beloved, even in the face of these trials, Easter reminds us that hope must never be lost. Just as Christ rose from the dead, bringing new life and renewed hope to the world.
According to him, Taraba State shall rise above its challenges, peace shall be restored, wounds shall be healed, and the land shall experience renewal, unity, and progress.
“Let this Easter mark a turning point—a season of reconciliation, healing, and transformation for our State and our nation at large.
“May the joy, peace, and power of the risen Christ dwell richly in your hearts, fill your homes with gladness, and guide our dear State towards a future of harmony, stability, and prosperity – he said.