Following rising cases of abduction and kidnapping, the Christian Association of Nigeria, Oyo State chapter, on Wednesday, 24 June, 2026 directed churches in the state to beef up security, suspend late activities, and fence their premises, reports thegazellenews.com
CAN made the directive through a communiqué made available to newsmen in Ibadan, Oyo State capital on Wednesday, 24 June, 2026.
The communiqué, which jointly signed by the CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and Secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi, said “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.
While calling on Churches to intensify prayers for the release of the abductees and suspend late physical activities because of the security situation in the state, the body also advised churches that are not fenced and gated to make such projects a priority.
The body also enjoined church leaders, as a matter of urgency, to man their premises with trained security personnel, especially during services, just as it also directed that every church should conduct a security assessment of guards and other personnel employed in essential services.
Advising churces not to allow strangers to sleep in their sanctuaries and church premises, CAN also called on the public to limit travel during this period and avoid late-night journeys.
It reiterated that the public should comply with the executive order issued by Governor Seyi Makinde banning commercial motorcycle operations after 10:30 p.m. in the state.
The association said it viewed the security situation in Oyo State with concern and sympathised with families of victims being held hostage by kidnappers.
It, however, appreciated measures taken by the state and Federal Government to secure the release of abductees across the state, with particular reference to the Orire Local Government incident.
The body resolved that the government should expedite action to secure the release of the abductees and reunite them with their families.
