The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo State has directed churches across the state to suspend late-night activities, including vigils, and ensure their premises are fenced and gated amid rising cases of abduction and kidnapping .
The directive was contained in a communiqué issued on Wednesday, jointly signed by the Oyo State CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and the Secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi .
Growing Security Concerns
The association expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in the state, describing the recent wave of abductions as "incessant" and a serious threat to worshippers and church workers .
"Due to incessant abduction and kidnapping in recent times, Oyo CAN advises churches to be more security conscious by strategically positioning security personnel and electronic devices within their premises and neighbourhood," the communiqué stated .
The directive follows the recent abduction of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15 . The victims were taken from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele .
Key Directives to Churches
Late-night activities suspended: CAN ordered churches to suspend all late physical gatherings, including vigils and overnight programmes .
Perimeter fencing mandatory: Churches without fences and gates were advised to make such infrastructure their next priority project, stressing that controlled access to church premises has become necessary in the face of current security challenges .
Security personnel required: Church leaders were directed to deploy trained security personnel, especially during worship services, and conduct comprehensive security assessments of guards and other workers providing essential services .
No strangers allowed: CAN warned against allowing unknown persons or strangers to sleep in church auditoriums or compounds, emphasising the need for greater vigilance .
Call for Public Cooperation
Beyond church communities, CAN urged residents of Oyo State to exercise caution by limiting unnecessary travel and avoiding late-night movements . The association also called for compliance with Governor Seyi Makinde's executive order banning commercial motorcycle operations after 10:30 p.m. across the state .
Government Collaboration
While sympathising with families of victims still in captivity, CAN commended efforts by both the Oyo State and Federal Governments towards securing the release of abducted persons . The body, however, urged authorities to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of all abductees .
The association further called for restraint in the dissemination of sensitive security-related information that could undermine ongoing rescue operations .
"CAN, Oyo State chapter, will continue to collaborate with the government to ensure the peace, unity and stability of the state," the communiqué affirmed .
State Government Curfew
In a related development, the Oyo State Government imposed a curfew in 10 local government areas surrounding the Old Oyo National Park as part of efforts to tackle kidnapping and other security challenges . The curfew, effective from Wednesday, runs from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. for 48 hours in the first instance . Affected councils include Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo and Atiba .
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