The Oyo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has directed churches across the state to strengthen security measures, suspend late-night activities, and prioritise the fencing and gating of their premises in response to the growing wave of kidnappings and abductions.
The directive was contained in a communiqué issued after a meeting of the association and jointly signed by the Oyo State CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and the Secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi. The communiqué was made available to journalists in Ibadan on Wednesday.
Expressing deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the state, the association urged churches to adopt proactive measures aimed at protecting worshippers, church workers, and property from criminal elements.
According to CAN, churches should strategically deploy trained security personnel and install modern surveillance equipment, including electronic monitoring devices, within their premises and surrounding environments.
The communiqué stated: “Due to incessant abductions and kidnappings in recent times, Oyo CAN advises churches to be more security-conscious by strategically positioning security personnel and electronic devices within their premises and neighbourhoods.”
As part of the security recommendations, churches were also encouraged to intensify prayers for the safe release of abducted persons and temporarily suspend late-night physical programmes and activities that could expose members to security risks.
The association further advised churches without perimeter fences and gates to prioritise such infrastructure, stressing that controlled access to church premises has become necessary in the face of prevailing security challenges.
CAN also directed church leaders to engage only trained security personnel during worship services and other gatherings. In addition, it called for thorough background checks and periodic security assessments of guards and workers providing essential services within church premises.
The body warned against accommodating unknown persons in church auditoriums, halls, or compounds, noting that such practices could pose serious security threats.
Beyond the church community, CAN urged residents of Oyo State to exercise caution by avoiding unnecessary travel and limiting movement during late hours. It also encouraged strict compliance with Governor Seyi Makinde’s executive order prohibiting commercial motorcycle operations after 10:30 p.m. across the state.
While sympathising with families whose loved ones remain in captivity, the association commended the efforts of both the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government toward securing the release of abducted persons, particularly victims of the recent abduction incident in Oriire Local Government Area.
CAN, however, called on security agencies and government authorities to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of all abductees to their families. It also urged members of the public to exercise restraint in the dissemination of sensitive security-related information that could undermine ongoing operations.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace and stability, the association pledged continued collaboration with government and security stakeholders in addressing insecurity across the state.
“CAN, Oyo State chapter, will continue to collaborate with the government to ensure the peace, unity, and stability of the state,” the communiqué concluded.
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