Amid increasing security concerns across the country, the South-West branch of the Christian Association of Nigeria has urged authorities at all levels to take more decisive action against criminal activities threatening lives and property.
The organisation expressed worry over the growing incidents of kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks reported in several states, warning that the situation requires urgent intervention from both federal and state governments.
In a statement signed by its South-West chairman, Bishop Barnabas Akin-Akinsanya, the association called for major improvements in the nation’s security framework and urged the Federal Government to treat the issue with the seriousness it deserves.
“The Federal Government should immediately review and strengthen the nation’s security architecture and ensure that all security agencies are adequately equipped with modern surveillance technology, drones, intelligence systems, communication gadgets, and rapid-response capabilities necessary for effective contemporary security operations.
“The Federal Government should declare a state of emergency on security,” the statement stated.
The group observed that attacks on innocent citizens have become more frequent, creating fear and uncertainty among many Nigerians.
The statement read: “Recent incidents of abductions and attacks on innocent citizens, young and old, have further heightened fear, anxiety, and uncertainty among Nigerians.
“What was once considered an occasional security breach has now become a recurring national tragedy that threatens the peace, economic stability, and social cohesion of our nation.
“CAN South-West strongly condemns these criminal acts and sympathises with the victims, their families, and communities affected by this growing insecurity.
“We pray for the safe release of those currently in captivity and for divine comfort for families who have suffered losses.”
The association also advised the Federal Government to seek technical and intelligence support from international allies where necessary, insisting that all lawful options should be explored to restore peace across the country.
According to the group, “national security should transcend pride, politics, and bureaucracy. Every legitimate avenue capable of restoring peace and security to our nation should be explored.”
CAN further appealed to governors in the South-West to increase collaboration on regional security initiatives, strengthen intelligence gathering and improve surveillance systems to curb criminal activities.
It said, “Our forests, highways, farms, and border communities are increasingly vulnerable to criminal infiltration. The region appears to be gradually encircled by growing security threats.
“We, therefore, call on the governors of the South-West states to strengthen regional security collaboration, support community-based intelligence gathering, improve surveillance, and enhance the operational effectiveness of existing security outfits.”
The Christian body also encouraged believers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions while continuing to pray for national peace and stability.
“Christians must exercise caution regarding vigils and other late-night gatherings where security cannot be adequately guaranteed, and avoid unnecessary journeys, especially through high-risk areas.
“We must be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities,” the CAN advised.
