Police Prescribe Security Committees For Churches, Mosques

The Nigeria Police, have recommended the setting up of Standard Security Committee by Churches and Mosques nationwide to work with the police in protecting them against attacks.

This is contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday by Mr Frank Mba, the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer.

Mba said that members of such committee should be made up of volunteers with impeccable background and passion for the safety of their fellow worshippers.

He added that proper vetting and background check should be carried out on all of them to avoid being infiltrated by ‘enemies.’

“The committee should work closely with the local police authority and other relevant security agencies in formulating appropriate security measures to protect places of worship,’’ he said.

Mba said that churches and mosques were supposed to be hallowed places of spiritual and religious gatherings and safe havens during crises and wars but had been targeted for attacks by terrorists.

“They are safe heavens and sanctuaries for worshiping and experiencing God’s love, mercy and grace.

“They are hallowed places and somewhat immune from the troubles, conflicts and violence of the world, including wars.

“However, recent events in Nigeria and other parts of the world, particularly the serial attacks on churches in some parts of the country, appear to have fundamentally altered this age-long view.’’

He said that the places of worship became targets of attacks because they had limited protective measures and absence of access control as worshipers were not required to provide any means of identification before being allowed in.

prevent him from reaching his targeted audience.

“Churches and Mosques officials are advised to make conscious efforts to know their members. This will make it easier for them to spot and identify strangers and intruders.

“Churches and Mosques in restive areas must avoid the temptation of isolating themselves from the public or their host community. They must avoid the ‘fortress mentality.’’

The police boss encouraged officials of churches and mosques to build strong relationship with local police and other security agencies to encourage seamless flow of information.

In addition, he said that worshippers should be encouraged to park their vehicles at designated distant places when coming to service.

He stressed the need to discourage worshippers from entering the worship centres with handbags, briefcases and other similar items.

“There is need for perimeter fencing of all places of worship to prevent invaders from gaining cheap access, especially during prayers/services.

Mba added that people should avoid rushing to the scene of explosions so as not to expose themselves to danger and to avoid distorting “scene of crime’’.

“Our decision to issue the above safety and security tips should not be seen as an attempt to abdicate our responsibility of protecting lives and property.

“The periodic release of security tips and other advisory notes is clearly in line with the concept of community and democratic policing, which demands constant engagement and interaction with relevant stakeholders.