The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has warned against attempts to use its name to mobilise church support for political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that it remains politically neutral.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the position known in a statement on Wednesday.
The association specifically disowned Archbishop Chivir Chianson, saying he was not its General Secretary and had no authority to speak on its behalf.
Okoh said the association had not authorised Chianson or his group to undertake any political mobilisation in its name.
“Any political position, endorsement or activity attributed to them must not be mistaken for the position or activities of the Association,” Okoh said.
He stressed that CAN would not allow individuals or groups without official ties to the association to exploit its identity for political or personal interests.
“As the umbrella body representing Christians across Nigeria, CAN has a responsibility to defend the interests of the Christian community and contribute to national development,” he said.
Reiterating its stance ahead of the 2027 polls, Okoh said the association would engage political leaders and hold them accountable regardless of their party affiliations but would not endorse any candidate or political party.
He urged Christians and members of the public to disregard claims by Chianson and his group that they represented CAN.
The CAN president also urged TVC News and other media organisations to verify the credentials and institutional affiliations of individuals presented as representatives of the association.
He warned that CAN would take appropriate steps to protect its identity and institutional integrity against unauthorised representation.
