CAN DECLARES NATIONWIDE BLACK SUNDAY OVER RISING INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

CAN DECLARES NATIONWIDE BLACK SUNDAY OVER RISING INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared a nationwide Black Sunday in remembrance of victims affected by the worsening insecurity situation across Nigeria, describing the persistent violence as a growing national tragedy that continues to devastate families and communities.

The declaration, announced on Sunday by the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, is aimed at honouring Nigerians who have lost their lives or suffered due to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, and other violent attacks recorded across different parts of the country.

According to the association, the nationwide observance serves not only as a period of mourning but also as a unified call for urgent action to address the country’s deepening security crisis.

CAN stated that countless Nigerians, including women, children, farmers, students, members of the clergy, and entire communities, have become victims of increasing insecurity, leaving many families displaced, traumatised, and uncertain about their future.

The Christian body noted that the Black Sunday observance coincides with Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebrations, stressing that the safety of citizens remains fundamental to the country’s democratic development and national stability.

In its message to Christians nationwide, CAN emphasized that democracy is built on the principles of justice, protection of human life, the rule of law, and the responsibility of government to safeguard its citizens.

The association maintained that there could be no better way to honour the sacrifices that helped shape Nigeria’s democracy than by renewing national commitment toward building a country where citizens can live, worship, travel, and work without fear.

CAN also expressed solidarity with grieving families, internally displaced persons, and survivors of violent attacks while offering prayers for healing, justice, and comfort for those directly affected by the crisis.

Referencing the biblical passage in Matthew 5:4, the association reminded Christians of the importance of standing together during difficult times while continuing prayers for victims across the nation.

Beyond the symbolic observance, CAN called on the Federal Government, state governments, and other authorities to urgently implement stronger and sustained security measures aimed at protecting lives and property.

The association stressed that protecting citizens remains one of the most important responsibilities of those in leadership and urged authorities to treat the nation’s security situation with greater urgency.

It further advised churches, Christian schools, hospitals, mission institutions, and other faith-based organizations to strengthen security measures within their facilities and surrounding communities.

According to CAN, improved security awareness, emergency preparedness, collaboration with local security structures, and constant vigilance have become necessary steps in response to prevailing threats facing the country.

The organization also encouraged Nigerians not to allow fear to divide the nation, urging citizens to remain united in pursuing peace, justice, and national healing despite ongoing challenges.

Nigeria has continued to experience widespread security concerns in recent years, with repeated incidents of terrorism, kidnapping, armed banditry, and communal violence leading to significant loss of lives and displacement of communities in several states.

With the declaration of Black Sunday, CAN says it hopes to draw national attention to the urgency of tackling insecurity while honouring victims whose lives have been affected by the prolonged crisis.