By The Nigeria Times Staffers
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared a nationwide “Black Sunday” to honour victims of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, warning that the Church can no longer remain silent as violence, terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry continue to devastate communities across the country.
In a nationwide message delivered on Sunday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the observance as a solemn moment to remember thousands of Nigerians whose lives have been lost or shattered by persistent insecurity. The tribute extends to victims from all walks of life, including clergy, farmers, students, women, children, and entire communities affected by violence.
“Our nation is bleeding, and the Church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost and families live in fear,” Okoh said, emphasizing that the initiative is both a memorial for victims and a call for urgent national action.
The observance coincided with Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebrations, a timing CAN said underscores the inseparable link between democratic governance and the protection of human life.
“Democracy is founded on the sanctity and dignity of human life, the rule of law, justice, and the protection of citizens,” the association stated. “There can be no more fitting way to honour the sacrifices that birthed our democracy than by recommitting ourselves to building a nation where every Nigerian can live, work, worship, and travel in safety.”
CAN expressed solidarity with bereaved families, internally displaced persons, survivors of attacks, and communities traumatized by violence, offering prayers for healing, comfort, and justice.
The Christian body also urged federal, state, and local authorities to adopt urgent, decisive, and sustained measures to address the country’s security crisis, stressing that safeguarding citizens remains the foremost responsibility of government.
Beyond government intervention, CAN called on churches, mission institutions, Christian schools, hospitals, and faith-based organisations to strengthen security measures, improve emergency preparedness, and work closely with local security networks to mitigate emerging threats.
As insecurity continues to claim lives and displace communities across Nigeria, CAN said the nationwide Black Sunday serves as both a national lament and a renewed demand for lasting solutions to one of the country’s most pressing challenges.
The association further urged Nigerians to remain united, resilient, and committed to peace, justice, and national healing despite the growing security concerns confronting the nation.
Post Comment