The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has rejected claims circulating in the public space alleging internal divisions within the body along regional lines, describing the assertions as false, malicious, and defamatory.
In a statement signed by its President, Daniel Okoh, the association also addressed allegations concerning the purported diversion of funds intended for the relief of persecuted Christians in Northern Nigeria.
“These allegations are entirely false, unfounded, and deliberately misleading.”
He further stated, “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.”
Reaffirming the unity of the organisation, Okoh emphasised that CAN remains a cohesive body across all regions of the country.
“There is no split, no secession, and no division within our structure. Any suggestion to the contrary is false and should be disregarded.”
He added that the association would continue to collaborate with Christian leaders nationwide, maintaining its commitment to peace, accountability, and the welfare of believers, particularly those affected by insecurity.
The statement also expressed concern over the origin of the allegations, attributing them to Isaac Omolehin.
“We are deeply troubled that these baseless claims were publicly propagated by Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry, Ilorin, without evidence and without regard for the potential consequences on national cohesion and the unity of the Church.”
CAN further noted references made to prominent Christian figures, including Enoch Adeboye, David Oyedepo, and William Kumuyi, warning that such mentions could mislead the public and heighten tensions.
“We also note, with concern, the unwarranted references to respected Christian leaders, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor William Kumuyi, in a manner capable of misleading the faithful and inflaming unnecessary tensions.”
Reiterating its stance, the association issued a firm warning against the dissemination of unverified claims.
“Let it be unequivocally stated: CAN will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods or any attempt to malign the Church.
“Accordingly, we issue a firm and final caution to Rev. Isaac Omolehin and any other individuals or groups who misuse their platforms to disseminate unverified or defamatory claims: desist immediately. Failure to do so will compel the association to take all necessary steps, including legal action, to protect its integrity and that of the Christian community.”
The association concluded by urging the public and media organisations to rely on verified information from official channels.
“We urge the public, the media, and the international community to disregard these false claims and rely only on verified information from official CAN channels.”
