The Christian Association of Nigeria has lamented the worsening insecurity across the country, declaring that Nigeria is “bleeding” from the impact of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
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CAN made the declaration as Christians across the country observed a nationwide “Black Sunday” in memory of victims of insecurity and in solidarity with families and communities devastated by violence.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the Church could no longer remain silent while innocent Nigerians are killed and many families continue to live in fear.
“Today, we are not only mourning; we are speaking with one voice. Our nation is bleeding, and the Church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost and families live in fear,” he said.
According to CAN, the Black Sunday was dedicated to honouring victims of insecurity, including men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students and entire communities whose lives have been shattered by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent attacks.
The association said the period of mourning coincided with the June 12 Democracy Day celebration, noting that democracy is rooted in the sanctity of human life, justice, the rule of law and the protection of citizens.
CAN argued that there could be no better way to honour the sacrifices that gave birth to Nigeria’s democracy than by ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
“The quest for security is not separate from the democratic journey; it is central to its success and sustainability,” the association stated.
Okoh reaffirmed the Christian belief in the sanctity of human life and expressed solidarity with bereaved families, displaced persons, victims of attacks and traumatised communities across the country.
The association also offered prayers for divine comfort, healing and justice for all those affected by Nigeria’s security crisis.
CAN called on the Federal Government, state governments and relevant authorities to take urgent, decisive and sustained steps to secure lives and property.
It stressed that the protection of citizens remains the foremost responsibility of government and must be treated with utmost seriousness.
“The protection of citizens is a sacred responsibility entrusted to those in authority and must be treated with the utmost seriousness,” CAN said.
The Christian body also commended the House of Representatives for passing the Community and State Policing Bill on June 11, 2026, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening grassroots security and improving community participation in the protection of lives and property.
CAN expressed hope that the Senate would complete legislative action on the proposal, saying the initiative could help improve local security responses and address emerging threats more effectively.
The association further urged churches, Christian schools, hospitals, mission institutions and other faith-based organisations to adopt proactive security measures to protect worshippers, students, workers and facilities.
It called for increased security awareness, emergency preparedness, collaboration with local security networks and greater vigilance in view of the threats facing communities across the country.
“While we trust in God’s protection, we must also exercise wisdom and prudence in protecting those under our care,” Okoh said.
CAN urged Christians to remain united, continue praying for the nation, support victims of violence and refuse to surrender to fear.
The association also prayed for President Bola Tinubu and other leaders, asking God to grant them wisdom, courage and determination to confront the country’s security challenges and restore peace and stability across Nigeria.
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