The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) wishes to categorically disassociate itself from Archbishop Chivir Chianson and the group he represents, following attempts to present himself as the General Secretary of the Association and associate CAN with a purported church mobilisation in support of a political candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
For the avoidance of doubt, Archbishop Chivir Chianson is not the General Secretary of CAN and has no authority or mandate to speak or act on its behalf. Furthermore, the group he represents has no official affiliation, working relationship or institutional connection with CAN.
CAN has not authorised, endorsed or mandated the individual or his group to organise, promote or 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.
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. It will not allow individuals or groups with no official relationship with the Association to appropriate its identity or exploit its name to advance political or personal interests.
The Association wishes to reaffirm its commitment to political neutrality as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. CAN will continue to engage national issues objectively and hold political leaders accountable, irrespective of party affiliation, without endorsing or mobilising support for any political party or candidate.
We urge members of the public, particularly Christians, as well as media organisations, to disregard any claim of official representation of CAN by the individual or his group. We also call on TVC News and other media organisations to exercise due diligence in verifying the credentials and institutional affiliations of individuals presented as representatives of the Association.
CAN will take all appropriate steps to protect its name, identity and institutional integrity against unauthorised representation and misrepresentation.
Signed:
✠ Archbishop Daniel Okoh,
President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)
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