2027: CAN DISOWNS ARCHBISHOP, RESTATES POLITICAL NEUTRALITY

The Christian Association of Nigeria has said Archbishop Chivir Chianson is not its General Secretary and has no authority to represent the association.

CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh issued the clarification on Wednesday, distancing the organisation from political mobilisation allegedly carried out in its name ahead of the 2027 elections.

He said CAN had neither authorised Chianson nor endorsed the activities of the group he represents.

“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,” the statement said.

The clarification follows public comments surrounding the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria’s endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for re-election. Chianson serves as that conference’s Secretary-General.

CAN stressed that political statements or endorsements made by the cleric and his group should not be presented as its official position.

The association reaffirmed that it would remain politically neutral while addressing national issues and holding leaders accountable, regardless of party affiliation.

It urged Christians and the public to disregard unauthorised claims of representation and asked media organisations to verify the credentials of guests presented as CAN officials.

The association also warned against using its name for political or personal interests, saying it would take appropriate steps to protect its identity and institutional integrity.