By Gbenga Omokhunu | Abuja The Nation
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday urged churches to raise awareness against gender-based violence and its devastating impact on families and communities.
CAN President Daniel Okoh spoke at the launch of the gender-based violence prevention project at the Christian Ecumenical Centre in Abuja. Okoh also said men and women of God must not be silent when women are being brutalised in their homes and communities.
The CAN president insisted that the church must not be indifferent when girls are denied education, dignity, or protection.
He said: “Let me begin by commending the Ford Foundation and WEWE for their tireless work in promoting gender justice and supporting faith-based approaches to social transformation. This partnership represents what can be achieved when faith meets action and compassion is translated into advocacy and service.
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“The theme for today’s event, Christian Leaders’ Response to Violence Against Women and Girls, could not be more timely. Across our communities, we are daily confronted with heartbreaking stories of abuse, exploitation, and violence, often perpetrated in silence. As Christian leaders, we must join forces with other humanitarian organisations that want an end to this anomaly.
“The Holy Bible commands us to defend the cause of the fatherless and plead the case of the widow (Isaiah 1:17). Our Lord Jesus Christ showed special concern for the marginalised, including women and children, who were among the most vulnerable in His time. If we are to be true disciples, we must follow His example by creating safe spaces, speaking out against injustice, and taking practical steps to end the cycle of gender-based violence in our homes, churches, and communities today.