BY MAYOWA SAMUEL
Suspected bandits in Zamfara have threatened to attack all churches in the state if they don’t close down.
The threat was contained in a letter written to the Christian community in the state.
Confirming the development, the Zamfara State Police Command disclosed that they are aware of the letter but are “on top” of the situation.
Speaking with newsmen on Monday, DSP Mohammed Shehu, spokesman for the Command said, “Yes, I can confirm that it’s true, a threat letter was sent to 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 all Christians globally to pray for them.
He revealed that the suspected terrorists in the letter, listed churches they will attack from now till the end of December.
“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,” he added.
“Some churches were listed for attack between now and the end of December, though the churches that would be attacked according to the 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 of Nigeria (CAN) in Zamfara State has also directed all churches not to hold church activities beyond 5pm for the next three months,” he said.
