By Our Correspondent

National News – The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cautioned Christians across Nigeria against engaging in hostile religious exchanges, especially on social media platforms.

The warning was issued on Wednesday in Kaduna by the Northern CAN Chairman, Joseph Hayab, who stressed that believers cannot “fight for God” through insults or abusive arguments.

He noted that such actions contradict biblical teachings and risk escalating religious tensions in an already sensitive environment.

Hayab explained that many online debates, often framed as defending Christianity, are rooted in provocation and misunderstanding.

According to him, the Bible discourages “vain and unprofitable arguments” that lead to division, strife, and spiritual harm.

He referenced scriptures such as Titus 3:9 and 2 Timothy 2:23, emphasising that Christians are instructed to avoid reckless debates that could damage both the speaker and the listener.

The cleric further stated that God, being omnipotent, does not require human defence through verbal attacks.

He warned that reacting emotionally to criticism of faith only weakens Christianity’s moral authority and misrepresents its teachings.

According to him, engaging in abusive exchanges diminishes the message of Christ and creates unnecessary conflict among religious groups.

He also highlighted the growing role of social media platforms like Facebook, X, and WhatsApp in amplifying religious tensions in Nigeria.

Viral posts, videos, and comments targeting religious beliefs have increasingly sparked outrage and, in some cases, physical confrontations.

Hayab concluded by urging Christians to uphold values of respect, discipline, and constructive dialogue, noting that true faith is demonstrated through character, not confrontation.