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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), South-West Region, has expressed concerns over escalation of kidnappings, banditry, and violent crimes across Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, Lagos, and several other parts of Nigeria.
The association said recent incidents of abductions and attacks on innocent citizens, young and old, have further heightened fear, anxiety, and uncertainty among Nigerians.
“What was once considered an occasional security breach has now become a recurring national tragedy that threatens the peace, economic stability, and social cohesion of our nation,” the association said on a statement made available to journalists in Akure on Sunday.
“CAN South-West strongly condemns these criminal acts and sympathises with the victims, their families, and communities affected by this growing insecurity.
“We pray for the safe release of those currently in captivity and for divine comfort for families who have suffered losses.”
In the statement signed by its Chairman, Barnabas Akin-Akinsanya, CAN said time had come for governments at all levels to move beyond rhetoric and adopt extraordinary measures to confront this national emergency.
It further said that every available security resource, technology, and intelligence-gathering mechanism should be fully deployed to combat the criminal elements terrorising communities.
“The Federal Government should immediately review and strengthen the nation’s security architecture and ensure that all security agencies are adequately equipped with modern surveillance technology, drones, intelligence systems, communication gadgets, and rapid-response capabilities necessary for effective contemporary security operations,” CAN urged.
It further urged the Federal government to declare a state of emergency on Security and seek International Collaboration, given the sophisticated nature of some of these criminal networks.
“W,e urge the Federal Government to seek strategic technical and intelligence support from friendly nations and international security partners where necessary,” the association noted.
“National security should transcend pride, politics, and bureaucracy. Every legitimate avenue capable of restoring peace and security to our nation should be explored.
“The Federal Government should spead up the process of making state police a reality in this nation.”
CAN also urged the governors of the South-West States to strengthen regional security collaboration, support community-based intelligence gathering, improve surveillance, and enhance the operational effectiveness of existing security outfits.
To the church, CAN urged members not to surrender to fear, citing 2 Tim.1:7, bit instead should intensify prayers for peace, security, and national healing (John 14:27).
as well as remain steadfast in faith and trust in God’s protection.
It also urged Christians to exercise caution regarding night vigils and other late-night gatherings where security cannot be adequately guaranteed.
“Avoid unnecessary journeys, especially through high-risk areas. Be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities,” the association advised.
“May God deliver our nation from the hands of evil and restore lasting peace, security, and prosperity to Nigeria. Amen.”
CAN’s statement is coming against the backdrop of the Oyo abductions and the recent kidnappings in Ondo and other neighboring states.
Regional bodies like Afenifere had earlier condemned the criminality, urging the governments at all levels to apply stringent measures to tame the bandits.
Afenifere had also reiterated its call for the urgent establishment of state police as a more practical measure to deal with the perennial situation of insecurity in the country.