CAN South-West Raises Alarm Over Rising Kidnappings, Calls for Security Emergency
The South-West chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep concern over the growing wave of kidnappings, banditry and violent crimes across parts of the country, urging the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security and take decisive measures to tackle the crisis.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chairman of CAN South-West, Bishop Dr. Barnabas Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, described the worsening insecurity in states including Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo and Lagos as a national emergency that threatens Nigeria’s peace, economic stability and social cohesion.
The Christian body lamented the increasing incidents of abductions and attacks on innocent citizens, noting that what was once considered an occasional security challenge has become a recurring national tragedy that continues to generate fear and uncertainty among Nigerians.
“Recent incidents of abductions and attacks on innocent citizens, young and old, have further heightened fear, anxiety and uncertainty among Nigerians,” the statement said.
CAN condemned the criminal acts and expressed sympathy with victims, their families and affected communities. The association also prayed for the safe release of persons currently in captivity and comfort for families who have suffered losses.
The group called on governments at all levels to move beyond rhetoric and deploy extraordinary measures to address the security situation. It urged the Federal Government to review and strengthen the nation’s security architecture by equipping security agencies with modern surveillance technology, drones, intelligence systems, communication gadgets and rapid-response capabilities.
According to the association, all available security resources, technology and intelligence-gathering mechanisms should be fully mobilised to combat criminal elements operating across the country.
CAN further urged the Federal Government to seek strategic technical and intelligence support from friendly nations and international security partners, arguing that the sophistication of some criminal networks requires broader collaboration.
“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 added.
The association also renewed calls for the establishment of state police, urging the Federal Government to accelerate the process of decentralising policing to improve local security responses.
Addressing governors in the South-West region, CAN warned that forests, highways, farms and border communities have become increasingly vulnerable to criminal infiltration. It called on state governments to strengthen regional security cooperation, support community-based intelligence gathering and improve surveillance across the zone.
“The South-West geopolitical zone can no longer afford complacency,” the association said, adding that the region appears to be gradually surrounded by growing security threats.
CAN also appealed to churches and Christians to intensify prayers for peace and national healing while remaining vigilant. It advised caution regarding late-night religious gatherings where adequate security may not be guaranteed and urged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
The statement concluded with a prayer for divine intervention and lasting peace, security and prosperity in Nigeria.
