CAN Kebbi Urges Security Chiefs to Uphold Justice, Warns Against Trading in Human Lives

 

In a powerful Easter message delivered in Birnin Kebbi, the Kebbi State branch of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) called on Nigeria's security chiefs to live up to their constitutional responsibilities by ensuring the safety and security of the lives and property of Nigerians.

Speaking during an Easter Sunday service at Saint Luke’s Anglican Church, the state chairman of CAN, Venerable Ayyuba Kanta, did not mince words in his address. He charged the nation’s top security personnel to rise to the challenge of restoring peace across Nigeria and warned that any failure in their duties would not go unnoticed — either by the people or by divine judgment.

“If those in charge of our security escape human justice, they must remember that the wrath of God is certain and awaits them,” Kanta declared before a congregation of hundreds of faithful. “There is life after death, and a just God who judges all.”

Venerable Kanta’s message struck a moral and spiritual tone, blending theological reflection with a sharp critique of contemporary leadership. Drawing from the symbolic message of Easter — the resurrection of Christ and triumph over sin — he implored Nigeria’s leaders to rise above corruption, violence, and temptation. He likened their duty to the resistance Jesus demonstrated during his earthly trials.

“Leaders must desist from trading with human lives,” Kanta said emphatically. “Instead of succumbing to evil, they must, like Jesus, resist the lure of personal gain at the expense of others. Peace has continually eluded our country, not for lack of security agencies, but for lack of genuine commitment to justice and righteousness.”

Referencing the ongoing spate of violence and bloodshed in different parts of Nigeria, the cleric lamented what he described as the “unfortunate killings” that have continued unabated. He questioned the efficacy of the security apparatus and criticized what he sees as an alarming tolerance for disorder and injustice.

“It’s tragic that despite the presence of armed forces and intelligence services, peace is still far-fetched. Nigerians are tired of empty reassurances — what we need is action and accountability,” he said.

Beyond politics and security, Kanta also addressed moral decay within the Christian community, urging believers to live out their faith more authentically. He lamented that modern-day Christianity has lost its spiritual discipline and warned that nominal belief without genuine practice is contributing to societal collapse.

“There’s a glaring difference between the Christians of old and the ones today,” he noted. “True believers waited on God, walked in faith, and resisted evil. Today, many Christians merely pay lip service to their faith while running to shrines and Babalawos for help.”

He argued that a society built on shallow spirituality and double standards cannot experience divine peace or social stability.

“Many of the problems we face today are the consequences of not living out our faith. Christians must go beyond quoting scripture — they must embody the teachings of Christ in every area of life,” he added.

Despite his sobering reflections, Kanta closed his message on a hopeful note. He offered prayers for national healing and urged Christians across Nigeria and the globe to continue interceding for peace.

“As we celebrate the resurrection of Christ, let us also believe in the resurrection of our country from chaos to calm, from injustice to equity. I wish all Christians a happy Easter, and I admonish us to fervently pray for the restoration of peace in Nigeria.”

The Easter service, which marked the end of the Holy Week, was attended by a large gathering of Anglican faithful at Saint Luke’s Anglican Church, who joined in thanksgiving for the successful completion of the spiritual season. Venerable Kanta’s sermon was met with quiet reflection, applause, and a renewed commitment by many to embrace peace, faith, and national responsibility.