CAN Declares Three-Day Mourning, Demands Security Emergency

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared a three-day national mourning period from June 12 to June 14, 2026, over the worsening security situation in the country and called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security nationwide.

The decision was part of resolutions reached at the National Church Denominational Leaders Summit 2026 held in Abuja on Tuesday under the theme, “The State of the Nation and the Way Forward.”

In a communiqué issued at the end of the summit, CAN expressed concern over rising cases of killings, kidnappings, terrorist attacks, abductions and the destruction of communities across the country.

The association announced that Friday, June 12, would mark the beginning of a three-day mourning period, while Sunday, June 14, has been designated as “Black Sunday” in honour of victims of violence and insecurity.

“CAN declares Friday, June 12, 2026, as the commencement of a three-day period of national mourning, to continue through Sunday, June 14, 2026.

“CAN further designates Sunday, June 14, 2026, as ‘Black Sunday’ across churches in Nigeria in honour of victims of violence and in solidarity with families affected by insecurity,” the communiqué stated.

CAN Calls for State of Emergency on Security

The Christian body urged the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive action to tackle the security crisis, describing the situation as a national emergency.

CAN condemned what it described as barbaric acts of murder, beheading, torture, rape, abduction and forced displacement being carried out against innocent citizens across the country.

“CAN condemns in the strongest terms the barbaric acts of murder, beheading, torture, rape, abduction and forced displacement being perpetrated against innocent citizens, and calls on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security across the country,” the communiqué stated.

The association stressed that the protection of lives and property remains the government’s primary constitutional responsibility and demanded measurable steps to restore public confidence.

Church leaders also called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture, improved intelligence gathering, stronger collaboration among security agencies and enhanced operational effectiveness in combating terrorism, banditry and violent crimes.

CAN further criticised what it described as the recurring use of conciliatory rhetoric by some government officials in response to serious security threats, urging authorities to adopt a more proactive and results-driven approach.

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CAN Backs State Police, Demands Release of Victims

The association also advocated the speedy establishment of state police and other lawful decentralised security structures to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve local response to security threats.

The summit noted with concern the growing wave of attacks in states including Oyo, Ogun, Borno, Kwara and Kogi, warning that continued violence poses a serious threat to national unity, stability and development.

CAN demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted schoolchildren, teachers and other citizens being held by criminal groups and called on security agencies to intensify rescue operations.

The association also urged the government to establish a comprehensive compensation, rehabilitation and resettlement programme for victims of terrorism, kidnapping and violent attacks, as well as displaced persons affected by insecurity.

Church Leaders Urge National Unity Against Insecurity

Beyond government action, CAN called on organised labour, legal bodies, student groups, civil society organisations, professional associations and traditional institutions to join efforts aimed at holding leaders accountable and ensuring sustained action against insecurity.

The association also criticised what it described as growing political distractions, including defections and early electioneering activities, while many communities remain under attack.

“CAN, therefore, calls on political leaders and parties to suspend divisive political distractions and focus national attention on restoring security, protecting citizens and rebuilding public confidence,” the communiqué stated.

The church leaders reaffirmed their commitment to peace, justice and national unity, urging Nigerians across religious, ethnic and political divides to work together in confronting the country’s security challenges.

CAN said the current wave of insecurity constitutes a collective national emergency requiring urgent and coordinated action from government, institutions and citizens alike.

Segun Lasisi

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.