*says its a deliberate ploy to frustrate spread of Christianity
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) 19 Northern States and Abuja has appealed to all Christians in Nigeria and the world over to assist in offering prayers following the demolition of two churches in Jigawa State on Wednesday.
AUTHENTIC News Daily gathered that the demolition was carried out at the instance of the state government.
The message sent out to Christians reads thus: “The Jigawa State Government on the Rampage. Demolished two churches ( Redeemed Christian Church of God- RCCG and The Lord’s Chosen Church in Rafin Sanyi Dutse the State Capital ).
“More Churches have been earmarked for further demolition as the exercise is said to continue tomorrow (Thursday).
“We are therefore soliciting for ur prayers for God’s intervention as we make efforts towards redeeming d situation. CAN Northern States.”
When contacted on phone, Secretary CAN 19 Northern States and Abuja, Barrister Danladi Yarima confirmed that he was briefed on the development.
“Yes we are aware that two churches have been demolished in Jigawa State. A Redeemed Christian Church of God and a Chosen Church,” he said.
He said that three others have also been marked for demolition Catholic Charismatic, Methodist and one other.
“This is same government using govt fund in building 90 mosques and few churches built by contribution of churches being demolished.
“During the tenure of Governor Saminu Turaki, he gave Christians nine hectares of land for building of churches and schools. Now they have signified intention of building an ultra modern market and a stadium, and something else on same portion of land.
“Where these churches are located is a Christian area, they are not located on water ways or any other location that would be a threat to the environment in future. CAN is disturbed because it’s a recurrent issue in some northern parts of the country where deliberately they refuse to give Certificate of Occupancy to churches.
“We view this as a deliberate attempt at frustrating the spread of Christianity. CAN has a legal directorate and would be looking at these issues and others and looking for lasting solution to them,” he said.
As at the time of filing this report, it was difficult to reach the authorities in Jigawa to get their own side of the story.
