The Christian Association of Nigeria has declared a nationwide Black Sunday in honour of victims of insecurity across the country, describing the persistent wave of violence, terrorism, banditry and kidnappings as a national tragedy.
In a message issued to Christians on Sunday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the observance was dedicated to mourning the countless Nigerians whose lives have been affected by the worsening security situation.
According to him, the initiative seeks to remember men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students and entire communities that have suffered loss, displacement and trauma due to insecurity.
“Today, we are not only mourning; we are speaking with one voice. Our nation is bleeding, and the Church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost and families live in fear,” the association stated.
CAN noted that the Black Sunday observance coincided with the nation’s Democracy Day celebration, emphasizing that security remains fundamental to the success and sustainability of Nigeria’s democratic system.
The association stressed that democracy is built on the protection of human life, justice, the rule of law and the security of citizens.
“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,” the statement added.
PUNCH gathered that, the Christian body expressed solidarity with families who have lost loved ones, internally displaced persons and victims of violent attacks across the country, while offering prayers for comfort, healing and justice.
Quoting the biblical passage Matthew 5:4, CAN stated, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,” adding that Christians nationwide remain united in prayer for all those affected by insecurity.
The association also called on federal, state and local governments to take urgent and sustained steps to tackle the security challenges confronting the country.
“We call on the government on all levels to take urgent, decisive and sustained measures to secure lives and property across our nation. The protection of citizens is a sacred responsibility entrusted to those in authority and must be treated with the utmost seriousness,” it said.
CAN further urged churches, Christian schools, hospitals, mission institutions and other faith-based organisations to strengthen security measures around their facilities and communities.
The body emphasized the need for improved security awareness, emergency preparedness, collaboration with local security networks and constant vigilance amid prevailing threats.
While encouraging Nigerians not to succumb to fear, the association called for unity, compassion and collective efforts towards peace and national healing.
“Let this day deepen our compassion, strengthen our unity and renew our commitment to peace, justice and national healing. Let us continue to pray fervently for our nation, support affected families and communities, and refuse to surrender to fear,” CAN stated.
Nigeria has continued to face widespread security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence, resulting in thousands of deaths and the displacement of communities across several states. CAN said the Black Sunday observance is intended to honour victims while drawing greater national attention to the urgent need for improved security across the country.