The Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has rejected invitation to participate in a peace summit in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The summit is believed to be a part of efforts to find a lasting solution to the persistent kiIIings in Southern Kaduna communities by suspected Fulani herdsmen or bandits as the State Governor would rather call them.
In a letter by the CAN sent through the CAN secretary, Reverend Sunday Ibrahim, the Christian body said it would not be a part of an arrangement with an ulterior motive.
The letter which is addressed to the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Pastor James Wuye, noted that the Christian body couldn’t guarantee the genuineness of the peace summit.
The letter read, “CAN will not support conflict entrepreneurs to use the horrible situation in Kaduna State to their advantage. The Southern Kaduna security challenges need a holistic and genuine approach and not a whitewash, playing to the gallery approach.
“Accordingly, since CAN was not involved in the organisation of the summit but only an invitee, CAN cannot guarantee the genuineness of those planning it.
“Without a doubt, CAN and UNI remain the most recognised authorities representing Christians and Muslims, respectively, hence, are legitimate authorities to partner with for a peace process as the one we year for and other matters relating to religion in Nigeria as a whole.
“CAN having established that the organisers of the proposed summit did not contact CAN ahead of the planned summit, enlisting CAN Chairman, Kaduna State, in the agenda is aimed at merely using CAN to adding credibility to the ambiguous peace process.
“To this end, CAN Kaduna State disassociates itself from this summit in its entirety given the lack of transparency in the planning of the summit. If the organisers recognize the need for CAN’s participation, the proper steps should have been taken.”