2027 Polls: ‘We Maintain Political Neutrality’, Says CAN

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has said that it maintains political neutrality as the country gears up preparations for the upcoming 2027 elections.

The Association was reacting to one Archbishop Chivir Chianson and the group he represented, following attempts to present himself as the General Secretary of the Association and associate with a purported church mobilisation in support of a political candidate.

A statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, noted that 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”.

The umbrella body representing Christians across Nigeria, noted that it has a responsibility to defend the interests of the Christian community and contribute to national development, saying that it would 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”.

It urged 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”.

The Association said it would take all appropriate steps to protect its name, identity and institutional integrity against unauthorised representation and misrepresentation.