The Christian Association of Nigeria has designated Sunday as a nationwide Black Sunday to honor the individuals who have lost their lives to insecurity across the country.
The association described the ongoing crisis as a national tragedy that has shattered numerous families through relentless violence, terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.
In a direct message to the Christian community, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, explained that the observance serves to mourn the men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students, and entire communities whose lives have been deeply impacted by the country’s deteriorating security situation.
“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 remarked.
CAN highlighted that this Black Sunday coincides with the celebration of Democracy Day, emphasizing that national security is fundamentally tied to the success of Nigeria’s democratic path.
“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 religious body extended its deep solidarity to displaced populations, grieving families, survivors of attacks, and everyone suffering from the trauma of insecurity, offering prayers for divine comfort, healing, and justice.
Quoting Matthew 5:4, CAN noted, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,” and affirmed that Christians nationwide are united in prayer for all those affected by the ongoing violence.
The association directed an urgent appeal to all tiers of government, urging them to implement sustainable and immediate solutions to confront the nation’s security challenges.
“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,” CAN stated.
Furthermore, CAN advised churches, faith-based organizations, Christian schools, hospitals, and mission institutions to bolster safety measures within their local communities and facilities.
“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,” the body added.
Despite the widespread challenges of terrorism, communal violence, banditry, and kidnappings that continue to displace communities and claim thousands of lives across multiple states, CAN urged citizens to hold onto hope.
“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,” the association concluded.
