Northern CAN Leaders Visit Benue, Stand in Solidarity with Governor Alia Over Renewed Attacks

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has extended heartfelt solidarity to Benue State in the wake of renewed violent attacks, assuring Governor Hyacinth Alia and the people of the state that they are not alone in their pain.

The powerful message was delivered during a condolence visit to the Benue State Government House in Makurdi. The delegation, made up of bishops, pastors, and church leaders from across denominations, was led by Rev. J.J. Hayab.

Their presence served as both a spiritual and emotional pillar for Governor Alia, who described the visit as deeply uplifting.

“You risked your lives to be here tonight. As I shook hands with each of you, I felt warmth, I felt love,” the governor said.
“This is what Christianity is: ‘I am because you are, and you are because I am.’”

The visit comes shortly after Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also visited the state to commiserate with affected communities and assure them of the federal government’s concern.

Governor Alia emphasized that these visits have shown that Benue is not isolated, even in its most difficult times. He also urged Christian leaders to go beyond spiritual responsibilities and become more active in the country’s governance and policy development.

“Until you get to the formula table, you won’t understand the equation,” Alia said, encouraging clergy to help shape national transformation.

Rev. Hayab, speaking on behalf of the delegation, stressed that their mission was more than ceremonial.

“We didn’t just want to issue statements from afar. We came to tell you face-to-face: you are not alone,” he said.

He condemned the violent killings, especially the targeting of innocent women, children, and students, urging Nigerians to stop mislabeling criminals.

“When terrorists kill sleeping children and students, don’t call them herdsmen. That’s not who herdsmen are. Call them what they are — criminals,” Hayab added.

He also warned that the continuous attacks in Benue, known as Nigeria’s food basket, could endanger the country’s food security.

Also present at the meeting, Rev. Jonathan Terwase Ugbede, Vice-Chairman of CAN in Benue, praised Governor Alia’s leadership, noting that under his administration, workers are paid promptly and pensioners are smiling again.

“Our governor is a promise keeper, a talk-and-do leader,” Ugbede said, adding that the governor’s name, Iormem (meaning “the people have rested”), is slowly becoming a reality despite the security challenges.

 

The delegation included Christian leaders from various blocs such as Catholic, Baptist, ECWA, PECAN, and White Garment churches, symbolizing a unified front of faith and compassion for the people of Benue.

Their message was clear: Benue is not alone, and justice must prevail.