The South-West chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to immediately declare a state of emergency on security in response to the growing wave of kidnappings, banditry, and violent crimes affecting communities across the country.
The regional chairman of the association, Bishop Barnabas Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity, noting that incidents of abduction and violent attacks in states such as Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Lagos have become serious threats to peace, economic growth, and social stability.
According to him, kidnapping, which was once considered an occasional occurrence in some parts of the country, has now evolved into a widespread and persistent security challenge that continues to create fear and uncertainty among citizens.
Akin-Akinsanya condemned the activities of criminal groups responsible for abductions and bandit attacks, while extending sympathy to victims and their families. He also offered prayers for the safe return of individuals who remain in captivity.
He stressed that the current security situation requires urgent and decisive action from authorities at all levels, adding that routine responses are no longer sufficient to tackle the scale of the crisis.
“The time has come for governments at all levels to move beyond rhetoric and adopt extraordinary measures to confront this national emergency,” he said.
The association urged the Federal Government to significantly strengthen security operations by providing law enforcement agencies with modern surveillance technology, drones, advanced communication systems, intelligence-gathering tools, and rapid-response capabilities needed to combat criminal activities effectively.
CAN maintained that the worsening insecurity across different regions of the country justifies the declaration of a security emergency that would enable a more coordinated and aggressive response against criminal networks.
The group further advised the government to seek technical assistance and intelligence support from friendly countries and international partners where necessary, insisting that every legitimate strategy capable of restoring peace and public safety should be explored.
In addition, the Christian body renewed its support for the establishment of state police, urging relevant stakeholders to accelerate efforts aimed at decentralising the nation’s policing structure.
Akin-Akinsanya argued that state policing has become increasingly necessary due to the distinct security challenges confronting various parts of the country. He said localised policing would improve intelligence gathering and enhance rapid responses to emerging threats.
The association also raised concerns about the growing vulnerability of forests, highways, farming communities, and border settlements in the South-West, warning that criminal elements are increasingly using such locations as operational bases.
To address the situation, CAN called on governors within the region to strengthen inter-state security cooperation, improve intelligence sharing mechanisms, and provide stronger support for existing regional security initiatives.
The organisation further advocated increased investment in community-based surveillance and intelligence systems, stressing that proactive security measures remain essential in preventing crimes before they occur.
While encouraging Christians to continue praying for peace, unity, and national healing, the association advised churches to take additional security precautions, particularly during night vigils and other late-night religious gatherings in areas considered vulnerable.
CAN also urged Nigerians to remain alert, avoid routes considered high-risk, and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to relevant security agencies.
The association concluded by expressing hope for a safer Nigeria and prayed for divine intervention in overcoming the country’s security challenges.
“May God deliver our nation from the hands of evil and restore lasting peace, security, and prosperity to Nigeria,” the group stated.
