Rev. John Hayab, the newly elected Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, is calling for unity among religious groups to tackle the growing issue of religious intolerance and violations of religious rights across Nigeria.
During a meeting in Kaduna with Christian journalists who visited to congratulate him, Rev. Hayab passionately emphasized that the fight against religious discrimination should be a collective effort. “Religious rights violations affect not only Christians but all faiths. To genuinely combat these injustices, we must come together in defense of all believers,” he declared.
Rev. Hayab stressed that no individual, regardless of their religion, should be denied their basic rights. He highlighted the importance of respecting religious freedoms, asserting that every citizen must be allowed to freely practice their faith, travel, and engage in legitimate business activities. “Such freedoms are crucial for both personal growth and national development,” he added.
Expressing deep concern over the alarming rise in religious intolerance in Nigeria, Hayab warned that the country was increasingly becoming a focus of international scrutiny regarding religious freedom. He stressed that religious bodies must not only speak out but also actively work to ensure that individuals who violate the rights of others based on religious differences are held accountable.
“Religious organizations should collectively urge the government to prosecute those who engage in religious-based discrimination,” Hayab said. “If the government begins to enforce laws against these violations, it will send a strong message that religious discrimination will not be tolerated in Nigeria.”
Rev. Hayab also acknowledged the significant support from Christian youths, women, church leaders, and the broader Christian community in Northern Nigeria. He expressed gratitude for their trust and promised to ensure that Christian voices are not only heard but protected under his leadership.
Reflecting on his recent election, Hayab admitted that there had been challenges, but he was pleased to see that the Northern CAN constituency came together to support the new leadership. He emphasized that his leadership would be inclusive and focused on fostering peace and unity. “My doors are always open to diverse opinions,” he said. “I am committed to working together to promote peaceful coexistence and the development of both Northern Nigeria and the country at large.”
With religious intolerance on the rise, Hayab’s call to action resonates as a timely reminder for all Nigerians to stand together in defending religious freedoms and ensuring an equitable society for all.
