The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Muslim community in Osun State have stepped up security measures at worship centres following an alert from the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged plan to attack religious centres in the state.
The development followed separate meetings between the DSS and religious leaders in Osogbo last week, during which the security agency reportedly advised them to take precautionary measures against possible attacks.
The alert came amid intelligence indicating that terrorists were allegedly planning to extend insecurity to parts of southern Nigeria, particularly the South-West, and create tension ahead of the presidential election.
In response, the Osun State chapter of CAN said it had introduced measures to improve security around churches and safeguard worshippers.
The state CAN Chairman, Pastor John Adeleke, urged churches to work closely with the association to implement the recommended security measures.
According to him, the measures include strengthening church security departments and properly profiling unfamiliar people visiting worship centres.
Adeleke also advised churches to thoroughly screen vehicles entering their premises and, where necessary, inspect bags brought into church compounds.
“We also encourage churches to raise an alarm when they notice some insecurity or danger in your community. Discourage night vigil, clubbing and travelling for members.
“We also decided that, where possible, car parks should be 100 metres from the church building, and church leaders should stop celebrating wealthy people in the congregation, especially those whose sources of wealth they do not know,” he said.
Similarly, the Public Relations Officer of the Osun Muslim community, Hameed Oyegbade, said the group
