The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on security agencies in the country to increase vigilance in places of worship during religious gatherings.
CAN made the call on Wednesday in a statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
TheFact Daily gathered that at about midnight Saturday, Gunmen stormed a Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) parish in Abule-Ori, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun, killing the pastor and abducting seven members of the church during a vigil.
Fortunately, security agencies rescued the seven church members and killed one of the kidnappers during a rescue operation.
However, the Christian body has said there is a need for security agencies to provide adequate security for worshippers.
According to CAN,” the attack on worshippers at the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Abule-Ori, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, is an assault on religious freedom in Nigeria. We mourn the loss of the Pastor and condemn the kidnapping of worshippers who were simply exercising their religious freedom to worship. We commend the security agencies for their swift response to the incident and call for intensified efforts to apprehend all the perpetrators.
“We urge the various security agencies to increase vigilance on places of worship during religious gatherings and provide adequate security measures for worshippers.
“CAN urges citizens not to be discouraged by recent losses but to continue to look up to God for help. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and churches. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.
In another development, the CAN while reacting to the fatal accident that affect the Salvation Army said,” the news of the tragic incidents that recently affected the Salvation Army and the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) with great shock.
“The loss of twelve pastors (Officers), a baby, and a driver in a fatal accident on the same day, near Benin City, Edo State, is a devastating blow to the congregation, the body of Christ in Nigeria, and the nation at large.
“We stand with the Salvation Army during this very difficult time in prayer, asking that God will comfort them and ease their pain.
“ We also urge the government authorities to thoroughly investigate the accident in order to prevent a repeat of this episode”.
