The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has announced a three-day national mourning period in response to the escalating wave of insecurity, killings, kidnappings, and attacks on communities across the country.
The mourning exercise, scheduled to commence on June 12, Nigeria’s Democracy Day, and conclude on June 14, which has been designated as “Black Sunday,” is aimed at honouring victims of violent attacks and expressing solidarity with families affected by the nation’s security crisis.
The announcement was made in Abuja by the President of CAN, Most Rev. Daniel Okoh, while presenting a communiqué issued at the end of the National Church Denominational Leaders’ Summit held at the National Christian Centre.
CAN expressed grave concern over the continued loss of lives and destruction of communities in several parts of the country, citing recent incidents in Oyo, Ogun, Borno, Kwara, Kogi and other states. The association lamented that many Nigerians now live in fear as criminal elements continue to carry out attacks, abductions and other violent crimes with devastating consequences.
The Christian body called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on national security and adopt more decisive measures to halt the bloodshed. It also advocated a comprehensive review of the nation’s security architecture, improved intelligence gathering, stronger collaboration among security agencies and greater accountability in security operations.
Furthermore, CAN reiterated its support for the establishment of state police, arguing that decentralised policing would enhance the nation’s ability to tackle security challenges more effectively. The association also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted schoolchildren, teachers and other citizens currently being held captive by kidnappers and criminal gangs.
On the humanitarian front, the organisation urged government at all levels to establish compensation, rehabilitation and resettlement programmes for victims of terrorism, violence and displacement. It also encouraged churches nationwide to provide humanitarian assistance, trauma counselling and support services for affected families and communities.
CAN further criticised what it described as the growing preoccupation of political actors with electoral calculations and defections while insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods across the country. The association urged leaders to prioritise the protection of citizens and national unity above political interests.
As part of the mourning period, churches across the country are expected to hold special prayer sessions, remembrance services and advocacy programmes aimed at drawing attention to the urgent need for lasting peace and security in Nigeria.
