The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared a three day national mourning period over the worsening security situation across the country and is urging the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security.
The decision was announced after the National Church Denominational Leaders Summit 2026 held in Abuja, where church leaders expressed concern over the continued killings, kidnappings and attacks affecting communities in different parts of Nigeria.
As part of the mourning period, CAN has designated Sunday, June 14, as “Black Sunday,” calling on churches nationwide to honour victims of violence and stand in solidarity with affected families.
In a communiqué issued after the summit, the association described the current security situation as alarming, citing persistent attacks, abductions, forced displacement and destruction of communities.
The church leaders called for urgent reforms, including a review of the country’s security architecture, stronger intelligence gathering, better collaboration among security agencies and the establishment of state and local police structures.
CAN also demanded the immediate release of abducted citizens and urged the government to introduce compensation and rehabilitation programmes for victims of violence.
The association criticised political leaders for focusing on election activities while insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods, stressing that protecting citizens must remain a top priority.
CAN further called on Nigerians across religious and ethnic lines to unite in defence of human life and national stability, while pledging to continue engaging government authorities in the search for lasting solutions to the crisis.
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