The Oyo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has directed churches across the state to suspend late-night programmes and strengthen security measures in response to increasing cases of kidnapping and abduction.
The directive was contained in a communiqué issued in Ibadan on Wednesday and jointly signed by the state chairman, Elisha Ogundiya, and secretary, Samuel Owolabi.
CAN said the rise in abductions had become a major concern for church leaders and worshippers, urging churches to be more security-conscious by deploying security personnel and strategically installing surveillance and other electronic devices within their premises and surrounding areas.
The association also advised churches to intensify prayers for the release of abducted victims and prioritise perimeter security. It urged churches without fences and gates to make securing their premises their next major project.
In addition, church leaders were encouraged to engage trained security personnel during services and conduct proper background checks on guards and other essential workers. CAN further warned against allowing strangers to sleep within church premises.
The association urged worshippers and residents to limit movement and avoid travelling late at night. It also called on the public to comply with the curfew on commercial motorcycles introduced by Governor Seyi Makinde, which prohibits their operations beyond 10:30 pm.
Expressing concern over recent security incidents, CAN sympathised with the families of victims and commended government efforts to secure the release of abductees, particularly those involved in the May 15 kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area.
The association called on both the state and federal governments to intensify efforts to rescue kidnapped victims and urged caution in the public dissemination of sensitive security information. It also reaffirmed its commitment to working with government authorities to promote peace and stability across Oyo State.
No comments:
Post a Comment