Thursday, June 25, 2026 - The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo State has directed churches across the state to suspend late-night programmes and fence their premises as part of renewed efforts to curb growing security threats.
The directive was contained in a communique issued in Ibadan
and jointly signed by the state chairman, Elisha Ogundiya, and secretary,
Samuel Owolabi on Wednesday.
According to the association, the decision follows increased
cases of abduction and kidnapping across the state, which it said have raised
serious concern among church leaders and members.
“Due to incessant abduction and kidnapping in recent times,
Oyo CAN advises churches to be more security conscious by positioning security
personnel and other electronic devices strategically within their premises and
neighbourhood,” the communique stated.
It further urged churches to suspend late physical
gatherings, intensify prayers for the release of abducted persons, and take
urgent steps to strengthen perimeter security.
“Churches not fenced and gated should see it as their next
project,” the association added.
CAN also advised church leaders to deploy trained security
personnel during services and conduct proper vetting of guards and other
essential workers within church premises.
It warned churches against allowing strangers to sleep
within sanctuaries or church compounds, while urging worshippers and the
general public to limit movement and avoid late-night travel.
The association also called on residents to comply with the
existing curfew on commercial motorcycles imposed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi
Makinde, which restricts operations beyond 10:30pm.
Expressing concern over recent insecurity incidents, the
group sympathised with families of victims and commended government efforts
aimed at securing the release of abductees, particularly those involved in the
May 15 incident in Oriire Local Government Area.
CAN urged both state and federal authorities to intensify
efforts to rescue kidnapped victims, while also calling for restraint in the
public dissemination of sensitive security information.
The body reaffirmed its readiness to continue collaborating
with government authorities in promoting peace and stability in the state.
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