The Christian Association of Nigeria on Sunday declared a nationwide Black Sunday in honour of victims of insecurity across the country, describing the situation as a national tragedy that has left countless families devastated by violence, terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
In a message to Christians, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the observance was aimed at mourning the men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students and entire communities whose lives had been affected by the worsening security situation in the country.
The association said, “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.”
According to CAN, the Black Sunday observance coincided with the celebration of Democracy Day, noting that security remained central to the success of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Democracy is founded on the sanctity and dignity of human life, the rule of law, justice, and the protection of citizens. Therefore, 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 association stated.
The Christian body expressed solidarity with bereaved families, displaced persons, victims of attacks and others traumatised by insecurity, while praying for divine comfort, healing and justice.
Quoting Matthew 5:4, CAN said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,” adding that Christians across the country were united in prayer for those affected by the violence.
The association also urged governments at all levels to take urgent and sustained measures to address the security challenges confronting the nation.
“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 called on churches, Christian schools, hospitals, mission institutions and other faith-based organisations to strengthen security measures around their facilities and communities.
“Security awareness, preparedness for emergency situations, collaboration with local security networks, and vigilance at all times have become necessary responsibilities in the face of prevailing threats,” it stated.
The association urged Nigerians not to surrender to fear but to remain united in pursuit of peace, justice 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 added.
Nigeria has continued to grapple with widespread insecurity, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence, resulting in thousands of deaths and displacement of communities across several states.
In response to the persistent attacks, the Christian Association of Nigeria declared a nationwide Black Sunday to mourn victims and draw attention to the country’s worsening security challenges.