The South-West zone of the Christian Association of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on security as kidnappings, banditry and other violent crimes continue to escalate across the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, June 7, the South-West CAN Chairman, Barnabas Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, expressed concern over the increasing cases of abductions and attacks recorded in states including Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo and Lagos.
He described the deteriorating security situation as a major threat to national stability, economic growth and peaceful coexistence, urging authorities to take urgent and decisive action.
According to the Christian body, “Incidents of kidnapping and other violent crimes, once considered isolated cases, have now become a recurring national challenge that continues to instill fear and uncertainty among citizens.”
The association condemned the activities of kidnappers, bandits and other criminal groups operating across the country, while expressing sympathy for victims and their families.
CAN also prayed for the safe return of those still being held captive and for comfort for families who have lost loved ones in violent attacks.
The organisation argued that governments at all levels must move beyond promises and adopt practical measures capable of reversing the current trend.
It stressed that the worsening security situation requires extraordinary responses, including the deployment of modern technology, improved intelligence gathering and stronger coordination among security agencies.
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According to the statement, the Federal Government should strengthen the country’s security architecture by providing security agencies with advanced surveillance equipment, drones, communication gadgets, intelligence systems and rapid-response tools needed to combat criminal networks.
The association maintained that the current challenges justify the declaration of a security emergency to facilitate a more aggressive response to criminal activities.
CAN further advised the Federal Government to seek technical and intelligence assistance from friendly countries and international security partners where necessary.
The Christian body said national security should take precedence over political interests, bureaucratic delays or concerns about national pride.
The association also renewed its support for the creation of state police, describing decentralised policing as essential to addressing the varying security challenges across different regions of the country.
CAN noted that forests, highways, farmlands and border communities in the South-West have become increasingly vulnerable to criminal activities and called on governors in the region to deepen security collaboration, improve intelligence sharing and provide stronger support for regional security outfits.
It also urged greater investment in community-based surveillance and intelligence systems to help detect and prevent crimes before they occur.