- The association also renewed calls for the creation of state police and other decentralised security structures
- The association lamented that thousands of citizens have been forced from their homes by armed attacks
- CAN announced three days of national mourning from June 12 to June 14, 2026
The Christian Association of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security, citing the worsening wave of killings, kidnappings, terrorist activities and attacks on communities across the country.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the call was made during the National Church Denominational Leaders’ Summit held in Abuja, where religious leaders deliberated on the nation’s security and socio-economic challenges under the theme, “The State of the Nation and the Way Forward.”
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In a communiqué issued after the meeting, church leaders expressed concern over the growing insecurity, economic difficulties and declining trust in public institutions, warning that many Nigerians now live under constant fear of violence and displacement.
The association lamented that thousands of citizens have been forced from their homes by armed attacks, while communities in several parts of the country continue to suffer from persistent criminal activities.
CAN highlighted recent incidents of abductions, killings and violent attacks in states including Oyo, Ogun, Borno, Benue and Kogi, describing the situation as alarming. It also raised concerns over attacks on schools, farming settlements and other vulnerable communities.
The Christian body condemned acts of murder, abduction, torture, sexual violence and forced displacement, calling on the government to take urgent and concrete measures to protect lives and restore public confidence.
Among its recommendations, CAN called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security framework, improved intelligence gathering, stronger collaboration among security agencies and greater accountability in tackling terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crime.
The association also renewed calls for the creation of state police and other decentralised security structures, arguing that localised policing would strengthen intelligence gathering and improve emergency response capabilities.
It further demanded the immediate release of all abducted schoolchildren, teachers and other victims currently being held by kidnappers, urging security agencies to intensify rescue operations.
As part of activities to honour victims of insecurity, CAN announced three days of national mourning from June 12 to June 14, 2026.
It also designated June 14 as “Black Sunday,” calling on churches nationwide to remember those who have lost their lives and show solidarity with affected families.
The organisation appealed to labour unions, professional groups, student organisations, civil society bodies and traditional institutions to join efforts aimed at ensuring government accountability on security matters.
The appeal comes amid public outrage over recent mass abductions, including attacks on schools in Oyo and Borno states.
In Oyo State, dozens of pupils and teachers were kidnapped during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, while another abduction involving schoolchildren was reported in Borno State’s Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
The incidents have triggered nationwide concern, with education stakeholders and labour groups demanding stronger action to safeguard schools and communities from criminal attacks.
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