Insecurity: CAN declares June 14 ‘Black Sunday’ to honour victims

By Anan Geolengs

Amid the security challenges beclouding the country, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared Sunday, June 14, 2026, as ‘Black Sunday’ across churches in Nigeria.
CAN said the day will climax a 3-day mourning period that will begin on Friday, June 12, 2026.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the National Church Denominational Leaders Summit 2026, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh said the declaration is in honour of victims of violence and in solidarity with families affected by insecurity.
“CAN calls on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), student bodies, civil society organisations, professional associations, traditional institutions, and all people of goodwill to join the Christian Association of Nigeria in holding government accountable and ensuring a sustained commitment to securing lives and property,” the communiqué stated.
The meeting was convened to prayerfully review the state of the nation and chart a collective path towards peace, justice, security, and national renewal.
The communiqué also called for a comprehensive review of the nation’s security architecture.
CAN said there is a need for enhanced intelligence gathering, stronger inter-agency cooperation, improved operational effectiveness, and greater accountability in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and violent crime.
The statement called for the immediate acceleration of constitutional and legislative processes leading to the establishment of state police and other lawful, decentralised security structures capable of improving intelligence gathering, rapid response, and local accountability.
“CAN urges stronger collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, faith-based organisations, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and local communities to confront the growing threats to national peace and stability,” it said.
“CAN demands the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted schoolchildren, teachers, and other citizens currently held captive by criminal elements across the country, and calls on security agencies to intensify rescue efforts until every victim regains freedom.
“CAN calls on churches across the country to strengthen support systems for victims of violence, displaced persons, and affected communities through humanitarian assistance, trauma care, peacebuilding initiatives, youth engagement programmes, and public awareness campaigns.
“CAN demands the establishment of a comprehensive compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement programme for victims of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent attacks. Families who have lost loved ones, persons who have suffered permanent injuries, and communities whose homes, schools, churches, and livelihoods have been destroyed deserve justice, support, and restoration.”
The statement further demanded the safe return, protection, and resettlement of displaced persons in their ancestral communities under adequate security guarantees.
“CAN affirms that prayer must be matched with action and resolves to intensify advocacy, civic engagement, and sustained dialogue with the Presidency, security agencies, the National Assembly, and other relevant stakeholders.
“CAN expresses grave concern that political calculations, defections, and premature electioneering activities continue while many communities remain under siege. CAN therefore calls on political leaders and parties to suspend divisive political distractions and focus national attention on restoring security, protecting citizens, and rebuilding public confidence.”