2027: CAN Disowns Self-acclaimed General Secretary, Warns Against Political Misrepresentation

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has distanced itself from Archbishop Chivir Chianson, declaring that he is not the association’s General Secretary and lacks the authority to speak or act on its behalf.

The association’s reaction followed alleged attempts by Chianson and a group he represents to project CAN as being involved in a church mobilisation exercise in support of a political candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, who made the clarification in a statement on Wednesday, said neither Chianson nor the group he represents had any official affiliation or institutional relationship with the association.

He maintained that CAN had not given the cleric or his group any mandate to organise, promote or participate in political activities in the name of the Christian body.

Okoh warned that any political endorsement, position or mobilisation attributed to the group should not be interpreted as reflecting CAN’s official position.

He said the association, as the umbrella organisation representing Christians across the country, remained committed to protecting the interests of the Christian community and contributing to national development.

The CAN president cautioned against attempts by individuals and groups without legitimate ties to the association to exploit its name and identity for political or personal gains.

Addressing the association’s position ahead of the 2027 elections, Okoh reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to political neutrality, stressing that it would neither endorse candidates nor mobilise support for any political party.

He explained that the association would, however, continue to engage constructively on national issues and hold political leaders accountable, regardless of their political affiliations.

CAN urged Christians and members of the public to disregard any claims by Chianson and his group to represent the association in an official capacity.

The association also appealed to TVC News and other media organisations to ensure proper verification of the credentials and institutional affiliations of individuals introduced as its representatives.

Okoh further warned that CAN would take necessary measures to safeguard its identity, reputation and institutional integrity against any form of unauthorised representation or misrepresentation.