.png)
1 day ago
2
ARTICLE AD BOX
CAN in Oyo State has instructed churches throughout the state to halt late‑night programs and secure their premises with fencing, as part of a renewed drive to address rising security threats.
The instruction appeared in a communique released in Ibadan and signed on Wednesday by state chairman Elisha Ogundiya and secretary Samuel Owolabi.
CAN said the decision comes after a rise in abductions and kidnappings throughout the state, a trend that has alarmed church leaders and congregants.
“Because of ongoing abductions and kidnappings, Oyo CAN urges churches to heighten security by strategically placing personnel and electronic devices on their premises and in the surrounding area,” the communique read.
The communique also called for churches to suspend late‑night physical gatherings, intensify prayers for abducted individuals, and urgently reinforce perimeter security.
“Churches that lack fencing and gates should treat this as a priority project,” the association added.
CAN further advised leaders to station trained security staff during services and to vet guards and other essential personnel thoroughly.
The body warned churches against permitting strangers to stay overnight in sanctuaries or compounds and urged worshippers and the public to restrict movement and avoid traveling after dark.
CAN also urged residents to observe the curfew on commercial motorcycles set by Governor Seyi Makinde, which bans operations after 10:30 pm.
Expressing concern over recent incidents, the group offered condolences to victims’ families and praised government actions to secure the release of abductees, especially those linked to the May 15 incident in Oriire Local Government Area.
CAN urged state and federal authorities to intensify rescue operations for kidnapped victims and called for restraint in publicly sharing sensitive security details.
The organization reaffirmed its willingness to keep working with government officials to promote peace and stability in the state.
English (US) ·