Oyo CAN Directs Churches to Suspend Late-Night Activities, Strengthen Security Measures

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, has directed all churches across the state to suspend late-night church activities and strengthen security measures around their worship centres as part of proactive efforts to safeguard lives and property.

The directive was contained in a communiqué issued on Wednesday in Ibadan following a meeting of the Association. The communiqué was jointly signed by the Oyo State CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Elisha Ogundiya, and the State Secretary, Apostle Samuel Owolabi.

According to the communiqué, churches are advised to temporarily suspend late-night programmes and services that may expose worshippers to security risks, particularly in light of prevailing security concerns in parts of the country.

The Association also instructed all churches to ensure that their premises are properly fenced where feasible and to implement additional security measures capable of enhancing the safety of members during worship and other church activities.

CAN stressed that the directive forms part of a broader commitment to protecting congregants while encouraging churches to remain vigilant and security-conscious. It urged church leaders to work closely with security agencies and local communities in identifying and addressing potential threats before they escalate.

The Association further encouraged pastors and church administrators to review existing security protocols, including access control, emergency response procedures, and the deployment of trained security personnel or volunteers during services and special programmes.

While reaffirming the importance of corporate worship and Christian fellowship, the Oyo CAN leadership noted that safeguarding human lives remains a shared responsibility and should not be taken lightly.

The Association called on Christians across Oyo State to remain prayerful, vigilant, and law-abiding while continuing to support efforts aimed at promoting peace, security, and stability throughout the state.