Christians United for Israel (CUFI), Prayer Outreach in the North-Central Zone, has declared its continued solidarity with Israel and its people, condemning attacks on civilians and calling for peace anchored on justice. Evangelist Mati Acka, North-Central Zonal Coordinator of CUFI, made the declaration in a statement issued in Makurdi, marking the third anniversary of the October 7 massacre.
The October 7, 2023, assault on Israel by Hamas and other armed groups resulted in one of the deadliest days in Israel's history, with about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, killed and many others taken hostage. CUFI's statement described the tragedy as a painful reminder of the devastating human cost of terrorism. Acka expressed solidarity with families who lost loved ones, survivors still grappling with trauma, and those affected by the hostage crisis.
CUFI's message extends beyond Israel, stressing that terrorism and attacks on innocent people should be condemned wherever they occur. Acka noted that Nigeria's own experience with terrorism, particularly in the North-Central region, gives Nigerians a painful understanding of the suffering endured by communities exposed to persistent violence. She emphasized that innocent lives must never become targets of violence.
Acka reaffirmed Israel's right to exist and defend itself while calling for peace and justice. She stressed that CUFI's solidarity with Israel is rooted in its Christian faith and the biblical injunction to pray for Jerusalem. Citing Psalm 122:6, Acka urged Christians to continue praying for the peace of Jerusalem.
The Coordinator also referenced Psalm 121:4 and Zechariah 2:8, which describe God's protection and care for Israel. She recalled that Christians around the world had recently observed the International Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem, an annual initiative dedicated to praying for peace in the city and the wider region.
Acka prayed for God's comfort for bereaved families and urged the international community to work towards preventing a recurrence of such atrocities in Israel and elsewhere in the world, including Nigeria. She encouraged Israelis not to lose hope despite their suffering, assuring them of CUFI Nigeria's continued prayers and support.
CUFI's declaration concluded with a reaffirmation of the organization's commitment to Israel, describing the country as having a special spiritual significance for Christians. Acka emphasized that Israel is the spiritual umbilical cord of every Christian believer on earth.
Key points
- CUFI expresses solidarity with Israel over the October 7 massacre.
- The organization calls for peace and justice in Israel and condemns attacks on civilians.
- CUFI's solidarity with Israel is rooted in its Christian faith and biblical injunctions.
