…says we thank God for escaping this notorious year
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has lamented the rate at which criminals operated with impunity in the country in 2021.
CAN disclosed this in a New Year message signed by its President, Rev Dr Samson Ayokunle, who thanked God for helping Nigerians to escape the dangers and threats of the year.
In the message titled ‘The New Year Message: Pray for God’s Mercy Over Nigeria’, Ayokunle stressed the dangers and threats of 2021 was exacerbated by the criminal activities of bandits, terrorists, kidnappers and other unscrupulous elements.
“It gladdens my heart to say a resounding HAPPY NEW YEAR 2022 to all Nigerians irrespective of their religious, tribal and political persuasions.
“Glory be to our God who helps us to escape all dangers and threats of the Year 2021 occasioned by the criminal activities of the bandits, terrorists, kidnappers and other unscrupulous elements amidst us.
“2021 was one year too many as a result of the ways and manners these criminals have been operating with impunity as if this is not the country we have been all these years.
“It is as if they have taken over the country. They invade communities, markets, churches and schools. They kill, maim, destroy and kidnap without much resistance or hindrance.
“They have turned our roads into death traps where they now kidnap for money, apparently due to the poor conditions of our roads.
“All of a sudden, kidnapping has become a big business as the innocent people are being kidnapped and ransoms in millions are being demanded and paid.
“Families of kidnapped people are at the mercy of the criminals! Some were not even fortunate as they were killed after the ransom has been paid!
“Our security agencies have been overstretched and the best done by our government is far from being enough if we must say the truth without deceiving ourselves.
“The Police have been parading the arrested kidnappers on the television but surprisingly, it appears as if they are too busy with their investigations to prosecute them,” Ayokunle stated.