The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ondo State chapter, has debunked reports making the round that it has endorsed a presidential candidate ahead of the 2023 general election.
The CAN members in the state led by the Chairman, Rev. Fr. Anselm Olorunfemi Ologunwa made the clarification during a courtesy visit to Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, at the Government House in Akure, the state capital, on Wednesday.
Ologunwa said the association is a neutral, apolitical, and non-partisan body which allows individual church members to join the political parties of their choice.
The chairman said: “As the clock ticks towards the Presidential and National Assembly elections holding this Saturday, it is pertinent for us as CAN to interact with you and put the records straight against the backdrop of some rumours flying around that CAN has endorsed a particular presidential candidate for the election.
“Dear Mr Governor, of truth and in all sincerity, the Christian Association of Nigeria has not and will not endorse any candidate for the election. Those peddling such rumours are mischief makers who wish to tarnish the reputation of the association. We at CAN have not and will not adopt any candidate for elections for the following reasons.
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“First, CAN as an umbrella body for Christians in Nigeria is a neutral, apolitical and non-partisan body which allows individual church members to join the political parties of their choice. Since we have members belonging to different parties, it is thus illogical to adopt a candidate and direct our members to do so.
“It may interest you our dear Governor to note that even at the national level, CAN did not adopt any candidate let alone the state chapters. Therefore, Ondo CAN stands by the national leadership of CAN and remains neutral.
“Second, your government has maintained a robust and symbiotic relationship with CAN and we cannot afford to sacrifice that on the altar of politics.
“Therefore, it is only plausible for us to maintain neutrality at elections while we continue to support your government and its laudable programmes geared towards improving the lives of the citizens.
“In reality, Ondo State CAN is fully in support of Mr Governor’s stance and bold steps on national issues, including fiscal federalism, devolution of powers, rotational presidency among others.
“We note that your stance is hinged on your firm belief in equality, justice, and fairness as the basis for our continued existence as a nation call Nigeria. Thus, your administration and our association remain partners in progress,” Ologunwa stated.
Responding, Governor Akeredolu thanked the Christian leaders for their prayers and supports for his administration.
Akeredolu stated that the CAN leadership has done the right thing by staying neutral in election matters, adding that the church is not meant to play politics but pray for the people and the country.
The governor, therefore, expressed his appreciation to all Christian bodies in Ondo State for their prayers and good wishes at all times, urging the CAN members to convey his appreciation to all churches in the state.
