Ibadan, June 24, 2026 — The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, has called on churches across the state to tighten security measures, suspend late-night programmes, and fence their premises in response to rising incidents of abduction and kidnapping.
The directive was contained in a communiqué made available in Ibadan on Wednesday and jointly signed by the State Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and Secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi.
The association urged churches to adopt stronger security arrangements, including the strategic deployment of security personnel and surveillance systems within and around worship centres.
It also advised congregations to intensify prayers for the safe release of kidnapped victims while discouraging late-hour church activities due to the current security situation.
Churches without perimeter fencing were encouraged to prioritise fencing and proper gating as an urgent safety measure.
CAN further instructed church leaders to engage trained security personnel during services and to conduct thorough background checks on guards and other essential workers.
It warned against allowing strangers to sleep within church premises and called for stricter monitoring of all activities within worship centres.
The body also advised members of the public to reduce unnecessary travel, particularly at night, and to comply with the state government’s directive banning commercial motorcycles from operating after 10:30 p.m.
Expressing concern over the security situation in Oyo State, CAN sympathised with families affected by recent abductions, including cases reported in Orire Local Government Area.
The association commended efforts by both state and federal authorities aimed at securing the release of kidnapped persons, while urging quicker action to reunite victims with their families.
It also called for careful handling of security-related information to avoid compromising ongoing rescue operations.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and security agencies to promote peace, stability, and unity across Oyo State.