In the face of growing economic challenges, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has thrown its weight behind the citizens, expressing solidarity with their plight.

The association, however, has urged caution as the planned protests set for August 1 draw near.

In a statement released on July 25, CAN’s national leadership, led by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, acknowledged the widespread suffering and frustration among Nigerians.

“The cries of the people highlight the severe difficulties faced daily as families struggle to afford basic necessities and sustain their livelihoods,” the statement read.

While affirming the constitutional right to peaceful protest, CAN warned against the potential for unrest.

“We must learn from the #ENDSARS and #RevolutionNow protests, where genuine grievances were overshadowed by violence, looting, and loss of lives,” the statement cautioned.

CAN urged citizens to explore alternative means of expressing their discontent, such as dialogue, petitions, and town hall meetings, to prevent hoodlums from hijacking the protests.

The association called on the government to cut the cost of governance and expedite measures to alleviate the nation’s hardships.

CAN also demanded the implementation of the newly approved national minimum wage to provide immediate relief for struggling families.

Additionally, CAN pressed for urgent action to curb kidnappings, banditry, and mass killings plaguing various parts of the country.

“The security and well-being of every Nigerian should be paramount,” CAN stressed.

In its closing remarks, CAN appealed for peace and unity, invoking the words of Jesus Christ: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). The association prayed for wisdom for the country’s leaders and resilience for its citizens.

“We believe that with divine intervention and collective effort, Nigeria can overcome these difficult times,” CAN concluded.