By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, has warned persons, groups and bodies against claiming to act in its name to endorse candidates and political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, and made available to journalists in Ibadan, the association said its executive had received reports of such endorsements across various constituencies, senatorial districts and the state, particularly from its zonal arm in Oke-Ogun, with skirmishes in other parts of the state.
Ogundiya said CAN encourages individuals, groups and bodies to participate fully in the electioneering process but will not, at any level, endorse any candidate or political party.
He explained that CAN is an umbrella body for protecting and defending the rights and welfare of Christians and Christianity, and is non-partisan and has no affiliation with any political party or interest group, although its members cut across all of them.
He added that only the executive council is recognised as speaking for the body in the state, and that only CAN, through its organs and in line with its objectives, can convene any stakeholders’ forum or meeting.
The chairman said every Christian has the right to register as a voter, collect a Permanent Voter Card (PVC), vote and ensure that votes count, as well as the freedom to join any political party.
He called on political actors to ensure a free, fair, credible election and appealed to anyone claiming to act for CAN to stop, for the sake of the integrity of the body of Christ.
He also urged Christians to be law-abiding and to pray for a credible election and for a leader “after God’s heart.”
