The South-West chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has raised the alarm over the worsening wave of kidnappings and violent crimes across the region, urging the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security nationwide.
In a press statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Chairman, Barnabas Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, the association expressed “profound concern and deep anguish” over the growing spate of abductions, banditry and attacks in states including Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo and Lagos.
The body warned that what was once perceived as isolated security breaches had evolved into a recurring national crisis threatening Nigeria’s peace, economic stability and social cohesion.
It said, “Recent incidents of abductions and attacks on innocent citizens have heightened fear, anxiety and uncertainty among Nigerians.
“This disturbing trend now poses a grave danger to national unity and development.”
CAN condemned the attacks and extended sympathy to victims and their families, while praying for the safe return of those still in captivity.
The association urged governments at all levels to move beyond rhetoric and adopt what it described as “extraordinary measures” to tackle the crisis.
It specifically called on the Federal Government to urgently overhaul the country’s security architecture, insisting that security agencies must be equipped with modern surveillance tools, drones, intelligence systems and rapid-response capabilities.
“The Federal Government should immediately review and strengthen the nation’s security framework. Every available resource must be deployed to confront this national emergency,” the statement added.
CAN further demanded the declaration of a state of emergency on security as part of urgent steps to stem the tide of violence.
Highlighting the increasing sophistication of criminal networks, the Christian body urged the Federal Government to seek technical and intelligence assistance from international partners.
According to the group, national security must rise above politics and bureaucracy, stressing that all legitimate avenues capable of restoring peace should be explored.
It also called for the accelerated establishment of state police, describing it as a critical step towards improving grassroots security and response time.
The association warned that the South-West region was becoming increasingly vulnerable, with forests, highways, farms and border communities exposed to criminal infiltration.
It therefore charged governors in the zone to strengthen regional security collaboration, improve surveillance systems and enhance community-based intelligence gathering.
“The region can no longer afford complacency. The threat is closing in, and proactive measures are urgently required,” it stated.
CAN also advised churches and Christians to adopt precautionary measures, including avoiding late-night gatherings in insecure areas, limiting unnecessary travel through high-risk routes, and promptly reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.
While urging citizens not to succumb to fear, the association called for intensified prayers for peace and national healing.
It added, “As people of faith, we must remain vigilant, steadfast, and united in the pursuit of a safer Nigeria.”
The statement comes amid rising public concern over insecurity, particularly kidnappings for ransom, which have continued to spread across several parts of the country.
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