CAN Declares Black Sunday Nationwide, Demands Urgent Action Against Insecurity

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Sunday observed a nationwide Black Sunday in honour of victims of insecurity, with its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, calling for urgent and sustained measures to address the country’s worsening security challenges.

In a message to Christians and Nigerians, Okoh said the day was set aside to remember the countless lives lost to violence, kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, and other forms of bloodshed that have devastated communities across the nation.

According to him, men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students, and entire communities have suffered immeasurable losses as insecurity continues to take a toll on the country.

“We are not only mourning; we are speaking with one voice. Our nation is bleeding, and the Church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost and families live in fear,” he said.

The CAN President noted that the observance of Black Sunday coincided with the country’s Democracy Day celebration on June 12, stressing that security remains a fundamental pillar of democratic governance.

“Democracy is founded on the sanctity and dignity of human life, the rule of law, justice, and the protection of citizens. There can be no more fitting way to honour the sacrifices that birthed our democracy than by recommitting ourselves to building a nation where every Nigerian can live, work, worship, and travel in safety,” he stated.

Okoh emphasized that the pursuit of security is inseparable from Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing it as essential to the success and sustainability of democratic governance.

He further expressed solidarity with victims of violence, displaced persons, and grieving families, while offering prayers for healing, comfort, protection, and justice.

“As Christians, we believe that every human life is sacred because each person is created in the image of God. Today, we stand with the bereaved, the displaced, the wounded, and the traumatized,” he said.

The CAN leader urged federal, state, and local governments to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard lives and property, describing the protection of citizens as a sacred responsibility that must be treated with utmost seriousness.

He also commended the House of Representatives for passing the Community and State Policing Bill on June 11, 2026, while expressing hope that the Senate would complete the legislative process.

According to him, the bill represents a significant step toward strengthening grassroots security structures and empowering communities to contribute effectively to public safety.

Okoh also called on churches, Christian schools, hospitals, mission institutions, and other faith-based organizations to enhance security measures within their facilities.

He urged religious and educational institutions to prioritize security awareness, emergency preparedness, collaboration with local security networks, and constant vigilance in response to prevailing threats.

“While we trust in God’s protection, we must also exercise wisdom and prudence in protecting those under our care,” he added.

The cleric encouraged Nigerians to remain united, support affected families and communities, and continue praying for peace, justice, and national healing.

He concluded by praying for the bereaved, the wounded, and the nation, while asking God to grant President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other leaders the wisdom, courage, and determination needed to tackle insecurity and restore safety across the country.