By Anan Geolengs
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has disassociated itself from Archbishop Chivir Chianson and group he represents, following attempts to present himself as general secretary of the association.
Chianson also associated CAN with purported church mobilisation in support of political a candidate ahead of 2027 general elections.
But CAN in a statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Wednesday in Abuja, said Chianson is not general secretary of CAN and has no authority or mandate to speak or act on its behalf.
He said the group he represents has no official affiliation, working relationship or institutional connection with CAN.
“CAN has not authorised, endorsed or mandated 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 position or activities of the association,” he said.
He said as umbrella body representing Christians across Nigeria, CAN has responsibility to defend interests of Christian community and contribute to national development.
He said it will not allow individuals or groups with no official relationship with association to appropriate its identity or exploit its name to advance political or personal interests.
He reaffirmed commitment to political neutrality as country approaches 2027 general elections.
“CAN will continue to engage on national issues objectively and hold political leaders accountable, irrespective of party affiliation, without endorsing or mobilising support for any political party or candidate,” he said.
Okoh urged members of the public, particularly Christians, as well as media organisations, to disregard any claim of official representation of CAN by individual or his group.
He also called on TVC News and other media organisations to exercise due diligence in verifying credentials and institutional affiliations of individuals presented as representatives of association.
He said CAN will take all appropriate steps to protect its name, identity and institutional integrity against unauthorised representation and misrepresentation.
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