Christian Association of Nigeria calls for nationwide Black Sunday to mourn insecurity victims

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) announced that Sunday, 14 June 2026 will be observed as a nationwide “Black Sunday” to mourn Nigerians killed in insecurity‑related attacks across the country. The declaration was made by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, who noted that the observance coincides with Democracy Day and underscored that security is a prerequisite for a functioning democracy.

Okoh urged the federal and state governments to take urgent, sustained measures to protect lives and property, and called on churches, hospitals, mission institutions and other faith‑based organisations to bolster security around their facilities and communities. CAN also appealed for prayer, unity and collective action to end violence.

The association highlighted the breadth of the insecurity crisis – terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and communal clashes – which has caused thousands of deaths and displaced many communities. It demanded that authorities treat the protection of citizens as a sacred responsibility and work to restore safety for all Nigerians.