The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has called for increased security presence at places of worship, particularly during Friday Jumu’at prayers and Sunday services.
The call followed the abduction of Muslim worshippers from mosques in Dekara, Kpenya, Sabon-Gida and Gidan-Zana communities in Borgu Local Government Area during Jumu’at prayers on Friday, August 21.
Niger State CAN Chairman who doubles as the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Reverend Bulus Yohanna, made the call in a homily at St. Michael Catholic Cathedral, Kontagora.
Bishop Yohanna stated that the entire Borgu Emirate, including Agwara and Borgu Local Government Areas, require a strong and permanent security presence to enable residents in rural communities to live without fear of abduction.
He condemned the abduction of the Muslim worshippers, describing attacks on places of worship as a threat to the sanctity of worship and the wider community.
The CAN Chairman also revealed that Christians and churches across Niger State had intensified prayers for the safe return of the abducted worshippers as he further urged churches and residents across the state to use their Sunday services to pray specifically for the safe return of the victims and for divine protection and guidance for security agencies.
Bishop Yohanna further commended the Federal and Niger State Governments, as well as security agencies, for their efforts so far in addressing the security situation.
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Editor: Terverr Tyav
