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Oyo chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has issued a directive to churches in the state to suspend late night activities and fence their premises in a bid to beef up security.
In a communique issued in Ibadan yesterday and jointly signed by Elisha Ogundiya and Samuel Owolabi, chairman and secretary secretary respectively, CAN said the move was informed by rising cases of abduction across the state in recent times.
“Due to incessant abduction and kidnapping in recent times, Oyo CAN advises churches to be more security conscious by positioning security personnel and other electronic devices strategically within their premises and neighbourhood.
“Churches should intensify prayers towards the release of the abductees and suspend late physical activities because of the security situation in the state.”
On May 19, CAN had directed churches to observe prayer and fasting for the release of the 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers abducted across three schools in Oriire.
CAN further advised churches not fenced and gated to see it as their next project.
The body also enjoined church leaders, as a matter of urgency, to man their premises with trained security personnel especially during services.
The association directed that every church should conduct a private security assessment of those employed as guards and other personnel on essential services.
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Churches were further advised to disallow strangers sleeping in their sanctuary and church premises.
The association also called on the public to limit their travelling and avoid late night movements.
CAN urged members to comply with the executive order issued by Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, which bans riding of commercial motorcycles after 10:30pm in the state.
The association said it viewed with concern the insecurity situation in Oyo state and sympathised with families of victims held hostage by bandits.
CAN, however, appreciated measures so far taken by the state and federal governments to secure the release of abductees across the state, with special reference to the May 15 abduction in Orire LGA.
The body urged the government to expedite actions in securing the release of the abductees and reunite them with their families.
The association also urged the government to limit security information dissemination to the public.
“CAN, Oyo State chapter, will continue to collaborate with the government to see to the peace, unity and stability of the state,” the communique added.
