In a statement yesterday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the development as an assault on religious freedom in the country, charging security agencies to immediately arrest the perpetrators.
He said the incident underscored the growing need for increased security measures around places of worship and called for a thorough probe of the tragic incident.
Okoh also expressed grief over the loss of 12 pastors (officers), a baby and a driver in a fatal accident same day near Benin City, Edo State, describing it as a devastating blow to the congregation, the body of Christ in Nigeria and the nation at large.
He condoled with families of the victims and the affected church communities.
The cleric said: “We stand with the Salvation Army during this very difficult time in prayer, asking that God to comfort them and ease their pains. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and churches. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace,”
Okoh admonished Nigerians not to be discouraged by recent losses, but should rather continue to look up to God for help.
