By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Christians has been urge to to get involved into both local and National politics.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Williams P. Awoshiri, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)
Taraba State Chapter stated this during a combined easter service organize by CAN, Jalingo Chapter held at the CAN Sectariate Jalingo.
“Make sure you get your Permanent voters card PVC’s to vote and be voted for. I urge you to get involved actively in both local and national politics.
“Christians wishing to contest for any political positions, should not hesitate to do so, they should go ahead.
On the security situation in the state, he said,
“Security is everybody’s business, be careful with stretch faces in your communities. Don’t take the laws into your hands, but report to law enforcement agencies for action.
He strongly condemns the renewed wave of violent attacks on communities in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas of Taraba State, which have claimed many lives pointing out that for long time some communities in Takum and Donga local governments have not experience peace.
“Let us pray for them, for they are all Christians. Those in IDP camps need help, let us continue to help them.
According to him, the sustained attacks have displaced many hundreds of thousands of people mostly Christian farmers who have been forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in Peva and Amadu towns of Takum LGA.
The CAN Chairman acknowledges and commends the efforts of the Taraba State Government, particularly the early deployment of security personnel to the Amadu axis, but express dismayed that the deployment lasted only for a few days while the killings continue unabated.
“We therefore, call for urgent and expanded deployment of security forces to the communities to end the circle of killings and displacement and give room for the people to return to their homes.
“This deployment should followed meaningful engagement and dialogue with relevant stakeholders to achieve lasting peace.
“The security gains recorded by the present administration across the state should not be allowed to be eroded by the continued killings and destruction in Southern Taraba – he said.
CAN reiterates that the persistent loss of innocent lives is unacceptable. Should urgent and decisive steps not be taken to halt the killings and protect vulnerable communities in the coming days, the Association may be left with no option but to organise a peaceful protest to draw the attention of the national and international community to the ongoing killings in the area.
“We reaffirm our commitment to peace, justice, and the sanctity of human life, and we call on all authorities concerned to act swiftly and responsibly in the interest of the people – he added.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the state, Barr. Timothy Gibon Kataps, appreciated CAN Jalingo Chapter for organizing the service and urge Christians to continue praying for Governor Dr Abgu Kefas for him to succeed.
“By the grace of God, Taraba State will be peaceful – he said.
Earlier, the CAN Chairman, Jalingo Chapter, Rev. Dr. Demas Sam Sarki, commend the Taraba State Governor, Dr. Abgu Kefas for his notable strides in stabilizing the security architecture of the state in a time marked widespread security concerns that have brought reassurance to the people.
“However, Your Excellency, while we express our appreciation, we are compelled by moral responsibility to highlight areas requiring urgent attention. The recent attack on the Chanchanji community, which resulted in the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property, is deeply of concern. We respectfully call for enhanced security measures and proactive intervention to prevent recurrence and restore public confidence.
“Furthermore, the lingering of ghost workers has precipitated significant hardship for many workers has precipitated significant hardship for many workers who remain unpaid. This anomaly continues to inflict economic and emotional distress on affected families. We humbly urge the prompt resolution of this matter in the interest of justice and human dignity.
Rev. Dimas Sarki use the medium to call on the Chairman of Jalingo Local Government to adopt a more inclusive governance approach by actively engaging Jalingo Chapter of CAN in policy formulation, appointments and elective process.
“As partners in progress, our collaboration is essential for equitable representation suitable development and social cohesion.
He said that Easter is not merely liturgical observance, but a profound proclamation that life prevails over death, hope conquers despair and light eternal overcomes darkness.
“We are gathered here today to sacred solemnity and triumph joy to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ the central fulcrum of Christian theology and the ultimate validation of divine sovereignty over sin, death and the grave.
He express appreciation to the Chairman of CAN Taraba State for dynamic inclusivity and visionary leadership.
“Your tenure has fostered unity and peace across denominational divides and strengthened the collective voice of Christians in Taraba State.
He also appreciated the immediate past Exco for their commitment and sacrificial service in sustaining CAN structures within Jalingo, adding that their contributions have laid a resilient foundation for continuity and growth.
Speaking, the Guest speaker, Bishop Nickson Jalo urge Christians to vote for a Christian Candidates that contested for any political positions, no matter the party.
“You should take your voting power with seriousness.
He spoke on the theme: The Verdict of Victory, took his readings from the books of 1Corithians 15:3, Rev.13:8 and Ps 139:16 -17, saying that Christ died on the cross as a symbol of Christianity.
“Christianity is not a religion, but a relationship with God. Christ died, buried and raise from death. Jesus Christ was crucified for committing no crime.
According to him, Jesus Christ was used by God to pass a message of verdict of victory to the people.