The Oyo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has directed churches across the state to suspend late-night physical activities following the increasing cases of abduction and kidnapping in parts of the state.
The directive was contained in a communique issued on Wednesday in Ibadan and jointly signed by the state CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and Secretary, Samuel Owolabi.
According to the association, the current security situation in the state requires churches to adopt stronger safety measures to protect worshippers and church facilities.
CAN advised churches to deploy trained security personnel, install surveillance and security devices, and remain vigilant against potential threats.
“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,” the communique stated.
The association also called on churches to intensify prayers for the release of kidnapped victims and suspend late-night physical programmes until the security situation improves.
Churches Asked To Strengthen Security
CAN urged churches without perimeter fences and gates to prioritise such projects as part of efforts to improve security around worship centres.
The body further directed church leaders to carry out background checks and security assessments on guards and other essential workers engaged within church premises.
It also warned against allowing unknown persons or strangers to sleep in church auditoriums or within church compounds.
In addition, residents were advised to avoid unnecessary travel, limit late-night movements and comply with existing security directives issued by the government.
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The association specifically urged citizens to obey Governor Seyi Makinde’s executive order banning commercial motorcycle operations after 10:30 p.m.
Oyo Government Imposes Curfew In 10 LGAs
The development comes as the Oyo State Government imposed a 48-hour curfew in 10 local government areas surrounding the Old Oyo National Park as part of efforts to combat kidnapping and other security challenges.
The curfew, which took effect on Wednesday, will run daily from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. in the affected areas.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said the measure was aimed at strengthening security operations around communities bordering the national park.
The affected local government areas are Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo and Atiba.
The government said the decision was linked to ongoing efforts to secure the release of victims abducted during the May 15 attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
A total of 46 people, including 39 pupils and seven teachers, were reportedly kidnapped during the attack on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele.
Authorities have urged residents of the affected communities to cooperate with security agencies as operations continue to rescue the victims and restore security in the area.