The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and the Muslim community in Osun State have increased security measures around worship centres following an alert from the Department of State Services, DSS, over an alleged plan to attack religious facilities in the state.
The move followed separate meetings between the DSS and religious leaders in Osogbo last week, during which the religious bodies were reportedly advised to take precautionary steps against possible attacks.
The security alert was said to be based on intelligence suggesting that terrorists were planning to extend insecurity to southern Nigeria, particularly the South-West, and create tension ahead of the presidential election.
In response, the Osun chapter of CAN said it had introduced measures aimed at protecting churches and worshippers.
The state CAN Chairman, Pastor John Adeleke, called on churches to work closely with the association in implementing the new security measures.
According to him, churches are expected to strengthen their internal security teams and properly screen unfamiliar persons visiting their worship centres.
He also advised churches to inspect vehicles entering their premises and check bags where necessary.
Adeleke further urged churches to alert security agencies whenever they observe suspicious activities or threats within their communities.
He advised members to avoid activities such as night vigils, late-night outings and unnecessary travel where possible.
CAN also recommended that church car parks should, where feasible, be located at least 100 metres away from church buildings.
The association equally advised church leaders to exercise caution when publicly celebrating wealthy members of their congregations, particularly when the sources of their wealth are unknown.
Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the Osun Muslim community, Hameed Oyegbade, said mosque leaders had also been directed to increase vigilance, particularly regarding unfamiliar people attending prayers.
Oyegbade said chief imams had been advised to provide additional security during Friday Jumat services and ensure that cars and motorcycles were not parked close to mosque buildings.
He added that imams had been encouraged to use their sermons to educate worshippers about security awareness and to report suspicious movements to security agencies.
He also cautioned against providing shelter or protection to strangers without first establishing their identities and background.
Adeleke Assures Residents of Safety
Meanwhile, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has commended the DSS for its proactive response to the reported threat.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor assured residents that his administration remained committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
Adeleke urged residents to immediately report suspicious persons or movements in their communities to security agencies.
He also called on other security agencies to assess the situation and develop strategies to strengthen security across the state.
The governor disclosed that he would soon convene a meeting of the State Security Council to review the situation and assess the effectiveness of the state’s response plans.
Adeleke also appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information and urged traditional rulers to discuss the security alert during their respective traditional council meetings.
He said the state must take steps to prevent any attempt by terrorists or bandits to undermine public peace.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to post-election peace-building and said efforts would be intensified to prevent security threats from disrupting peace in Osun State.
Source: Vanguard News
