The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared Sunday, June 14, 2026, as a "black Sunday" to mourn victims of terrorist attacks across the country. The association also announced a national prayer period from June 12 to June 14, seeking divine intervention over worsening insecurity.
CAN President's Remarks
Speaking at the conclusion of its National Church Denominational Leadership Summit 2026, CAN President, His Eminence Archbishop Daniel Okoh, emphasized that prayers alone were insufficient to address the nation's security challenges. He stressed the need for concrete action to combat the growing threat of violence and insecurity.
Call for State of Emergency
Okoh urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, arguing that such a step was necessary to bring the situation under control. He also called for the acceleration of state policing reforms and the decentralization of security structures, stating that these measures would enable quicker and more effective responses to security threats.
Demand for Justice
Additionally, he demanded the unconditional release of kidnapped victims across the country, while insisting that justice must be served in all cases of abduction and terrorist violence. The association's declaration comes amid escalating security concerns nationwide.
