Oyo CAN Urges Churches to Tighten Security and Cease Late‑Night Activities

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, has urged churches in the state to strengthen security measures, halt late‑night activities, and fence their premises in response to increasing abduction and kidnapping incidents.

The directive was released in a communique that the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan received on Wednesday.

The communique was signed jointly by CAN Chairman Rev. Elisha Ogundiya and Secretary Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi.

“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 read.

“Churches should intensify prayers for the release of the abductees and suspend late physical activities because of the security situation in the state,” it added.

The association further advised churches that are not fenced and gated to make that their next project.

The body also urged church leaders, as a matter of urgency, to staff their premises with trained security personnel, especially during services.

It directed that each church conduct a private security assessment of guards and other personnel involved in essential services.

Churches were further advised to prohibit strangers from sleeping in their sanctuaries or on their premises.

CAN also called on the public to limit travel during times like these and avoid late‑night journeys.

It reiterated that the public should comply with the executive order issued by Gov. Seyi Makinde banning the riding of commercial motorcycles after 10:30 p.m. in the state.

The association expressed concern about the insecurity situation in Oyo State and sympathised with the families of victims held hostage by bandits.

It appreciated measures taken by the state and federal governments to secure the release of abductees across the state, citing the Orire Local Government saga as an example.

The body resolved that the government should expedite actions to secure the release of abductees and reunite them with their families.

It also urged the government to limit the dissemination of security information to the public.

“CAN, Oyo State chapter, will continue to collaborate with the government to see to the peace, unity and stability of the state,” the communique stated.