The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, has directed its members in the 33 local government areas to suspend late-night activities amid a growing wave of insecurity.
It also enjoined them to strengthen their security measures and prioritise the perimeter fencing of their respective environments.
The directive comes on the heels of recent cases of kidnapping and other vices in the state.
Nigerian Tribune recalls the reported case of the abduction of 47 teachers and students at both Yawota and Ahoro Esienle communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
CAN, in a communiqué jointly signed by the Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and the Secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi, at the end of its meeting, said the directives became imperative in order to further secure the lives and property of its members as well as collaborate with the government at all levels in the area of security.
The association, while expressing its deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the state, 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.
CAN also 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.
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 towards 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.
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