Insecurity: South-West CAN demands state of emergency, backs state police

Says attacks threatening national peace

By Dayo Johnson Akure 

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN,  in the South-West has asked the Federal Government to immediately declare a state of emergency on security to tackle kidnappings, banditry, and violent crimes nationwide.

Chairman of the association in the region, Bishop, Barnabas Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, said abductions and attacks in Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Lagos now threaten national peace, economic development, and social stability.

He noted that kidnappings, once seen as isolated, have become a recurring challenge fuelling fear among citizens.

 Akin-Akinsanya condemned the activities of kidnappers and bandits, expressed sympathy with victims and families, and prayed for the safe release of those still in captivity.

“The time has come for governments at all levels to move beyond rhetoric and adopt extraordinary measures to confront this national emergency,” he said.

CAN urged the Federal Government to equip security agencies with modern surveillance equipment, drones, advanced communication gadgets, intelligence systems, and rapid-response capabilities. 

” It said the security situation warrants an emergency declaration to coordinate an aggressive response against criminal networks.

The association also advised government to seek technical and intelligence support from friendly nations and international partners where necessary.

 “Every legitimate avenue capable of restoring peace and security to our nation should be explored,” it stated.

CAN renewed its support for state police, urging stakeholders to accelerate decentralising policing. 

Akin-Akinsanya said state policing has become imperative given the unique security challenges across regions.

The group expressed concern over the vulnerability of forests, highways, farmlands, and border communities in the South-West, saying criminals are exploiting them as operational bases. 

 He called on governors to strengthen inter-state security collaboration, improve intelligence sharing, and support existing regional outfits.

CAN advocated more investment in community-based intelligence and surveillance to prevent crime before it occurs.

While urging Christians to keep praying for peace and national healing, the association advised churches to exercise caution during night vigils and late-night activities in areas without adequate security.

It also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk routes, and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

“May God deliver our nation from the hands of evil and restore lasting peace, security, and prosperity to Nigeria,” CAN prayed. 

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