The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has dismissed claims by Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry, Ilorin, that the association is divided.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its President, Daniel Okoh, CAN described the allegations as “false, malicious, and deeply defamatory,” noting that such narratives were circulating in the public space.
The association said Omolehin’s claims alleging a division within CAN along Northern and Southern lines, as well as the diversion of funds purportedly meant for the relief of persecuted Christians in Northern Nigeria, are “completely false.”
“We state in the clearest possible terms that these allegations are entirely false, unfounded, and deliberately misleading,” the statement read.
“For the avoidance of doubt, CAN has neither received nor managed any such relief funds as alleged, and no funds have been diverted under any circumstance.
The narrative being promoted is a fabrication, calculated to misinform the public, erode trust, and bring the Church into disrepute.”
CAN maintained that it remains a united and indivisible body.
“There is no split, no secession, and no division within our structure. Any suggestion to the contrary is false and should be disregarded,” it added.
The association also reaffirmed its commitment to unity among Christian leaders across all regions of Nigeria, emphasizing its focus on peace, accountability, and the welfare of believers, particularly those affected by insecurity.
CAN expressed concern over the public spread of what it described as baseless claims without evidence, warning of their potential impact on national cohesion and church unity.
It further faulted references made to prominent Christian leaders, including Enoch Adeboye, David Oyedepo, and William Kumuyi, saying such mentions were capable of misleading the faithful and creating unnecessary tension.
“Let it be unequivocally stated: CAN will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods or any attempt to malign the Church,” the statement added.
The association issued a stern warning to Omolehin and others against disseminating unverified or defamatory claims, noting that failure to desist could result in legal action to protect its integrity and that of the Christian community.
CAN urged the public, media, and international community to disregard the claims and rely only on verified information from its official channels.
