Lagos CAN urges Nigerians not to lose hope amid Insecurity, backs Tinubu’s efforts
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State Chapter and Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the face of growing insecurity across the country, insisting that the Federal Government is taking deliberate steps to address the challenge.
Speaking during a media briefing on Thursday, Bishop Adegbite described the recent wave of kidnappings and attacks in parts of the country as disturbing, particularly the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State and the killing of a Mathematics teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun.
The cleric condemned the killing of the teacher, describing the perpetrators as agents of evil and enemies of humanity, stressing that no genuine religion supports the shedding of innocent blood.
“We are particularly saddened by the gruesome killing of Mr. Michael Oyedokun during the unfortunate Oyo kidnapping saga. Such an inhuman act further confirms that the perpetrators are enemies of humanity,” he said.
Adegbite extended condolences to the family of the deceased teacher, his colleagues, students and the wider education community, while praying for the safe return of kidnapped victims across the country.
Despite growing public concerns over insecurity, the CAN chairman maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration was not relenting in efforts to restore security and stability nationwide.
According to him, several strategic security measures are being implemented by the Federal Government, although many operations are not made public for tactical reasons.
“It is important to state clearly that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not folding its arms in the face of these security challenges,” he stated.
He commended the recent appointment of a Special Adviser on Homeland Security, describing it as a timely initiative that would strengthen intelligence gathering, coordination and emergency response mechanisms.
The cleric also acknowledged the constitutional rights of Nigerians to peaceful protest and freedom of expression over insecurity and economic hardship but warned against actions capable of destabilising the country.
“While constructive criticism is healthy for democracy, actions capable of creating chaos, deepening division or undermining national stability must be discouraged,” he cautioned.
Calling for unity, patriotism and dialogue among citizens and political actors, Adegbite urged Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information and prayers.
“This is the time to build the nation together and not pull it apart,” he added.
The CAN chairman also commended the leadership of the All Progressives Congress for endorsing President Tinubu for a second term in office, describing the move as necessary for continuity and the consolidation of ongoing reforms.
He further congratulated Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, on his emergence as the APC consensus governorship candidate for the forthcoming Lagos governorship election.
Adegbite described Hamzat as an experienced technocrat and committed public servant capable of sustaining Lagos State’s developmental strides.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to remain hopeful and united despite current national challenges.
“Nigeria shall overcome its present challenges and emerge stronger by the grace of God,” he said.
