Bandit threatening Zamfara CAN to close down worship centers or face fresh attack

By Seyi Babatunde, Kaduna

Faceless groups thought to be bandits have threatened the Christian community in Zamfara State to close down churches or face a fresh attacked in their different worship centers in the state.

The development was confirmed by the Zamfara State Police Command, while assuring that they are “on top” of the matter.

DSP Mohammed Shehu, spokesman for the Command told newsmen that the police were already aware of the threat letter.

He said, “Yes, I can confirm that it’s true, a threat letter was sent to the Christians in Zamfara State to stop worship and to close churches.

“Actually the police informed the Christian leaders about the threat.

“Accordingly the CP has invited the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state to discuss security measures around the churches.

“In that regard, a special squad has been created by the CP to patrol and protect worshippers, especially on Sundays.

“Additionally, plain-clothes personnel have been deployed for intelligence gathering and to unravel those behind the threat letter.”

A Christian leader who pleaded anonymity on Sunday, called on Christians all over the globe to pray form them.

He revealed that the suspected terrorists particularly listed churches they will attack from now till the end of December.

He said. “Let’s pray for Christians in Northern Nigeria, especially in Zamfara State as we are issued a three-year ultimatum to close all churches in the state.

“Some churches were listed for attack between now and the end of December, though the churches that would be attacked according to the Fulani group that wrote the letter are located on the outskirts of the town, but we believe it’s just a trick.”

“Same letter was also copied to the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies and they all Confirmed receipt of the letter.

“The police in the state have directed Christians to intensify security in all places of worship, pastors’ houses, other Christian centres.

“Christian Association Nigeria (CAN) in Zamfara State has also directed all churches not to hold church activities beyond 5pm for the next three months,” he said.