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The South-West Zone of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep concern over the growing wave of kidnappings, banditry and violent crimes across the country, calling on governments at all levels to take urgent and decisive action to address the security crisis.
The association said recent abductions and attacks in states including Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo and Lagos had heightened fear and uncertainty among citizens, warning that insecurity had become a recurring national tragedy threatening peace, economic stability and social cohesion.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Lagos, the South-West CAN Chairman, Bishop Dr. Barnabas Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, condemned the criminal activities and sympathised with victims, their families and affected communities.
“We pray for the safe release of those currently in captivity and for divine comfort for families who have suffered losses,” he said.
The association urged the Federal Government to move beyond rhetoric and adopt extraordinary measures to tackle what it described as a national emergency.
According to CAN, all available security resources, technology and intelligence-gathering mechanisms should be fully deployed to combat criminal elements terrorising communities across the country.
It also called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security and urgently review and strengthen the nation’s security architecture.
The association stressed the need for security agencies to be adequately equipped with modern surveillance technology, drones, intelligence systems, communication gadgets and rapid-response capabilities to effectively address contemporary security challenges.
CAN further urged the Federal Government to seek technical and intelligence support from friendly nations and international security partners to dismantle sophisticated criminal networks operating in the country.
“National security should transcend pride, politics and bureaucracy. Every legitimate avenue capable of restoring peace and security to our nation should be explored,” the statement said.
The association also renewed calls for the speedy implementation of state policing, describing it as a critical step toward improving grassroots security and intelligence gathering.
Addressing governors in the South-West region, CAN said the zone could no longer afford complacency as forests, highways, farms and border communities had become increasingly vulnerable to criminal infiltration.
It urged the governors to strengthen regional security collaboration, improve surveillance systems, support community-based intelligence gathering and enhance the effectiveness of existing security outfits.
The Christian body also called on churches and Christians to intensify prayers for peace and national healing while remaining vigilant and security conscious.
It advised worshippers to exercise caution regarding night vigils and other late-night gatherings where adequate security could not be guaranteed, avoid unnecessary journeys through high-risk areas and promptly report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
“May God deliver our nation from the hands of evil and restore lasting peace, security and prosperity to Nigeria,” the statements added.
