By Adeola Badru

The Oyo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has directed churches across the state to strengthen security measures, suspend late-night activities and ensure that their premises are properly fenced and gated amid growing concerns over rising incidents of kidnapping and abduction.

The directive was contained in a communiqué issued following a meeting of the association by the Oyo State CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi, and made available to journalists in Ibadan on Wednesday.

Expressing deep concern over the worsening security situation in the state, CAN urged churches to adopt proactive measures aimed at protecting worshippers, church property and surrounding communities.

The association specifically advised churches to strategically deploy security personnel and install electronic surveillance devices on their premises and in neighbouring areas to deter criminal activities.

“Due to incessant abductions and kidnappings in recent times, Oyo CAN advises churches to be more security-conscious by strategically positioning security personnel and electronic devices within their premises and neighbourhoods,” the communiqué stated.

CAN also called on churches to intensify prayers for the safe release of abducted persons and to suspend late physical activities in view of the prevailing security challenges.

In addition, the association urged churches that do not have perimeter fencing and gates to prioritise such projects without delay.

Church leaders were further directed to engage trained security personnel, particularly during worship services and other church gatherings.

The body also recommended comprehensive security assessments of guards and other workers providing essential services within church premises, while warning against allowing strangers to sleep in church auditoriums or compounds.

Extending its security advisory beyond places of worship, CAN urged residents of Oyo State to limit unnecessary travel and avoid late-night journeys.

It also called on the public to comply fully with Governor Seyi Makinde’s executive order banning commercial motorcycle operations after 10:30 p.m. across the state.

While sympathising with families of victims currently being held captive, the association commended ongoing efforts by both the Oyo State and the federal governments to secure the release of abducted persons, particularly those affected by the recent incident in the Orire Local Government Area.

CAN, however, urged the authorities to intensify efforts to secure the freedom of all abductees and reunite them with their families as quickly as possible.

The association also called for restraint in the public dissemination of security-related information, warning that the indiscriminate circulation of sensitive details could undermine ongoing security operations.

“CAN, Oyo State chapter, will continue to collaborate with the government to ensure the peace, unity and stability of the state,” the communiqué stated.

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