Black Sunday: CAN Declares National Mourning Over Insecurity Victims

|By Adejumo Adekunle – The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared Sunday, June 14, 2026, as Black Sunday to honour victims of insecurity across the country.

During the Black Sunday observance, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh said Nigerians were mourning thousands of lives lost to terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes. He stressed that the nation was “bleeding” and warned that the Church could not remain silent while innocent citizens lived in fear.

Archbishop Okoh linked the Black Sunday commemoration to the recent Democracy Day celebration. He argued that democracy can only thrive when governments protect lives, uphold justice and guarantee citizens’ safety.

He also urged federal, state and local authorities to take decisive action against insecurity. According to him, protecting citizens remains a sacred responsibility that must be treated with urgency.

Furthermore, CAN praised the House of Representatives for passing the Community and State Policing Bill, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening grassroots security.

The association also called on churches, schools, hospitals and other faith-based institutions to improve security awareness, emergency preparedness and cooperation with local security networks.

Meanwhile, CAN encouraged Nigerians to support affected families, remain united and continue praying for peace, justice and national healing.