Oyo CAN disowns political endorsements, warns against using its name

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, has dissociated itself from political endorsements by individuals and groups claiming to act on behalf of the Christian body ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The association said it would neither endorse any political candidate nor affiliate with any political party or interest group, warning those using its name to canvass support for candidates to desist.

The state chairman of CAN, Rev. Dr Elisha Ogundiya, stated this in a directive issued by the association’s executive, following reports of political endorsements by some individuals and groups, particularly within its zonal arm in Oke-Ogun and other parts of the state.

Ogundiya said although CAN encouraged Christians to participate actively in the electioneering process, the association, as an umbrella body, remained non-partisan.

He explained that Christians under the association belonged to different political parties and interest groups, adding that CAN’s responsibility was to protect and defend the rights and welfare of Christians and Christianity.

The chairman stressed that only CAN, through its recognised organs and established procedures, had the authority to convene Christian stakeholders’ meetings on behalf of the association.

He warned that any gathering of Christian stakeholders organised without the prior approval of the state chairman and the executive council should not be recognised as representing the Christian body in Oyo State.

While cautioning against the use of CAN’s name for political interests, Ogundiya affirmed the right of Christians to join political parties of their choice and participate fully in the electoral process.

He urged them to register as voters, collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), cast their ballots, and ensure that their votes counted.

The association also called on political actors to ensure that the forthcoming elections were free, fair and credible, stressing the need to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

It further dissociated itself from unauthorised political gatherings and warned that it would not hesitate to discipline members who attempted to bring the association into disrepute.

CAN urged Christians and other stakeholders to remain law-abiding and steadfast in prayer for credible elections and the emergence of a leader after God’s heart.