Insecurity: CAN Says Nigeria Is Bleeding, Observes Nationwide Black Sunday

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday led a nationwide observance of “Black Sunday,” describing it as a collective Christian response to what it called the worsening state of insecurity in the country.

The association said the solemn exercise was necessitated by the increasing wave of killings, kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and displacement affecting communities across Nigeria, warning that the situation had left the nation bleeding.

In a nationwide message, CAN [resident, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the church was compelled to act in unity of voice and purpose, stressing that continued silence in the face of violence was no longer acceptable.

“We are not only mourning; we are speaking with one voice. Nigeria is bleeding, and the church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost and families live in fear,” he said.

He explained that the Black Sunday observance was aimed at honouring victims of insecurity, including children, women, men, clergy, farmers, students, and entire communities who have been affected by violent attacks across the country.

Okoh said the moment called for national reflection and urgent intervention to prevent further deterioration of security conditions.

He noted that the observance came shortly after the Democracy Day celebration on June 12, stressing that democracy must be backed by the protection of life, justice, and the rule of law.

According to him, “There can be no true democracy where citizens live in fear. The sanctity of life must remain at the centre of our national values if democracy is to survive and thrive.”

Quoting Matthew 5:4, he reminded Christians that “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,” urging solidarity with bereaved families, displaced persons, and victims of trauma nationwide.

The CAN president also urged governments at all levels to urgently strengthen security measures, describing the protection of lives and property as a non-negotiable responsibility of leadership.

He commended the House of Representatives for passing the bill on Community and State Policing on June 11, 2026, describing it as a step toward decentralised security, but expressed concern over delays in the Senate’s consideration.

Okoh further advised churches, schools, hospitals, and faith-based institutions to heighten security awareness and improve emergency preparedness in response to current realities.

He called on Nigerians to use the Black Sunday observance to deepen unity, compassion, and national healing, while praying for peace and stability across the country.

He also prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved, recovery for the injured, protection for communities, and wisdom for leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to confront insecurity and restore lasting peace.