Amidst a worrying surge in abductions and kidnapping, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, has ordered all churches across the state to immediately fortify their premises and suspend late-night physical activities.

The directive was contained in a joint communiqué released on Wednesday by the state CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and Secretary, Very Rev. Samuel Owolabi, following a critical review of the security situation in the state.

New Security Mandates for Churches

The Christian apex body instructed ministries to prioritize physical infrastructure and active surveillance to protect worshippers. The key directives include: 

Churches without perimeter fences and gates must construct them immediately.

All late-night physical church programs and activities are suspended.

Electronic security devices and cameras must be deployed strategically.

Trained security guards must man church entry points during services.

All existing guards and essential staff must undergo immediate security assessments.

Strangers are strictly banned from sleeping inside sanctuaries or church premises.

Public Travel Restrictions

Beyond church regulations, CAN urged the general public to alter their movement patterns to minimize vulnerability. The body advised citizens to limit non-essential travel and completely avoid late-night journeys.

Furthermore, the association called for strict compliance with Governor Seyi Makinde’s executive order, which bans commercial motorcycle operations after 10:30 p.m. across Oyo State.

Call for Government Action

While expressing sympathy with the families of current kidnap victims, CAN acknowledged ongoing state and federal rescue efforts, particularly regarding the recent abductions in Orire Local Government Area.

However, the body resolved that the government must expedite actions to safely reunite hostages with their families. It also recommended that authorities tightly manage the dissemination of sensitive security information to the public to avoid compromising ongoing operations.

"CAN will continue to collaborate with the government to ensure the peace, unity, and stability of the state," the statement concluded.