CAN Denies Split Allegations and Missing Relief Funds, Issues Warning
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly refuted recent reports alleging a division within the organization along Northern and Southern lines, as well as the diversion of funds purportedly intended for the relief of persecuted Christians in Northern Nigeria. In a statement released yesterday in Abuja, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh described these allegations as entirely false, unfounded, and deliberately misleading.
Unified and Indivisible Body
Archbishop Okoh emphasized that CAN remains one united and indivisible body, with no split, secession, or division within its structure. He stated that any suggestion to the contrary is false and should be disregarded by the public. The association continues to work in unity with Christian leaders across all regions of Nigeria, maintaining a steadfast commitment to peace, accountability, and the welfare of all believers, especially those affected by insecurity.
No Relief Funds Received or Diverted
In response to the claims about missing relief funds, Okoh insisted that CAN has never received nor managed any such funds as alleged. He clarified that no funds have been diverted under any circumstances, labeling the narrative as a fabrication calculated to misinform the public, erode trust, and bring the Church into disrepute. The CAN President expressed grave concern over the circulation of these false, malicious, and deeply defamatory claims in the public space.
Warning to Rev. Isaac Omolehin
Archbishop Okoh identified Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry in Ilorin, as the source of these baseless claims, which were propagated without evidence and without regard for potential consequences on national cohesion and Church unity. He noted with concern the unwarranted references to respected Christian leaders such as Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor William Kumuyi, which could mislead the faithful and inflame unnecessary tensions.
Okoh issued 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, urging them to desist immediately. He warned that failure to do so would compel CAN to take all necessary steps, including legal action, to protect its integrity and that of the Christian community.
Call for Public Disregard and Reliance on Verified Information
The CAN President urged the public, media, and international community to disregard these false claims and rely only on verified information from official CAN channels. He stressed that the association remains steadfast in its commitment to truth, unity, accountability, and service to all Nigerians, reinforcing its role as a cohesive and responsible religious body.
