Atiku backs CAN’s security reform demand, asks Muslim leaders to join campaign

The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed support for the resolutions of the Christian Association of Nigeria at its 2026 National Church Leaders Summit. The former Vice President also backed the association’s call for urgent reforms to address the country’s worsening security situation. In a post on his verified X handle on Wednesday, Atiku said he aligned with the concerns raised by the Christian body and sympathised with Nigerians affected by insecurity across the country. “I have just read the communique released by the Christian Association of Nigeria under the leadership of His Grace Archbishop Daniel Okoh from the 2026 National Church Leaders Summit, and I align with the concern and sympathies of the Church in Nigeria over the security of the lives of Nigerians,” he said. The former presidential candidate noted that CAN’s demand for a comprehensive review of the nation’s security framework echoed concerns he had repeatedly raised about the performance of the current administration. “The demand for a comprehensive review of the nation’s security architecture, enhanced intelligence gathering, stronger inter-agency cooperation, improved operational effectiveness and greater accountability in the fight against terrorism, banditry and violent crime, are all fully in line with my position on the failure of the Tinubu-led Federal Government,” Atiku stated. He commended Christian leaders across various denominations for speaking with one voice on the security challenges confronting the country, describing the move as a timely intervention. “It is encouraging for Nigerians to see Christians from various denominations and blocs unite in this spiritual wake-up call upon the political leadership to do better,” he said. Related News 2027: Accord disowns Olawepo-Hashim’s candidacy, refunds N50m nomination fee Atiku laments abduction of ex- minister Adelabu’s sister, twin nephews Marco Rubio pledges continued counterterrorism pact with Nigeria According to Atiku, the decision by Christian leaders to declare three days of national mourning should serve as a moment of reflection for those entrusted with leadership responsibilities. “From the Catholic Secretariat to the Christian Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (CPFN), the Organisation of African Instituted Churches to the TEKAN/ECWA and other Christian blocs in Nigeria, the declaration of a three-day period of national mourning should serve as moments of reflection for all political leaders, especially those in power with the responsibility to do better by Niger