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Tag: CAN

  • CAN president criticises El-Rufai’s leadership style

    CAN president criticises El-Rufai’s leadership style

    Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has criticised the leadership style of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

    Speaking on TVC News Politics Tonight, Hayab said the former governor’s approach to handling conflicts in the state left many communities feeling neglected.

    He added that past leaders such as Ahmed Makarfi, Namadi Sambo, the late Patrick Yakowa, and Ramalan Yero made more deliberate efforts to foster peace and unity.

    His comments came in reaction to El-Rufai’s recent statement that he had no regrets about his actions in office.

    Hayab described the remarks as insensitive to the experiences of communities affected by violence during the period.

    He further expressed concern over what he described as uneven distribution of development projects, alleging that certain communities benefited less from the state’s urban renewal programme, which was funded with loans.

    The CAN leader also addressed the long-standing debate over the population of Southern Kaduna, insisting that the region represents a significant proportion of the state’s residents and should not be overlooked in political considerations.

    Hayab disclosed that he initially supported El-Rufai’s candidacy in 2015 but later became dissatisfied with his leadership approach, which he described as intolerant and dismissive of opposing views.

    He urged leaders in the state to adopt a more inclusive style of governance, adding that peace and stability should remain the priority for Kaduna going forward.

  • CAN reacts over Ebonyi indigenes killed in Anambra

    CAN reacts over Ebonyi indigenes killed in Anambra

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ebonyi chapter, has described the killing of 13 Ebonyi indigenes in Anambra as a grave crime against humanity and God.

    The Chairman of the Association, Rev. Scamb Nwokolo, made this known on Thursday during a news conference in Abakaliki.

    Recall that the 13 Ebonyi indigenes were killed on June 30 during their monthly town union meeting in Ogboji, Orumba South, Anambra.

    Nwokolo, who condemned the killing, urged security agencies in Anambra to heighten vigilance and ensure safety for all citizens, regardless of their social status.

    He commended Anambra Police Command’s efforts and called on the state government to bring the perpetrators to justice and support the bereaved families.

    “While we commiserate with Governor Francis Nwifuru and Ebonyi people, we deeply empathise with families who lost loved ones in this heinous attack.

    “We pray God grants them strength to bear the painful loss. As a church, we remain prayerful and steadfast. We seek lasting peace and safety for the lives and property of every Nigerian citizen,” Nwokolo stated.

  • God is not a fraud – CAN berates Prophet Fufeyin over ‘first fruit forgives sins’ claim

    God is not a fraud – CAN berates Prophet Fufeyin over ‘first fruit forgives sins’ claim

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has responded to Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, the General Overseer of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry’s submission that giving a “first fruit” offering can wipe away sins, including those committed by fraudsters.

    TheNewsGuru understands that Fufeyin while delivering a sermon at his church stated that the first fruit brings miraculous blessings and forgiveness.

    The clip, which resurfaced online, has drawn criticism from many Nigerians, although the cleric made the statement in a sermon he delivered in January 2022.

    Reacting, the National Director of National Issues and Social Welfare of CAN, Abimbola Ayuba, described the cleric’s claim as “heresy,” warning Nigerians against being misled by preachers of “dubious theological background.”

    Ayuba, in a statement stressed that God does not condone sin simply because of offerings given in church.

    He said, “Heresy and false teaching. CAN does not join issues with people of doubtful theological background. CAN recognises approved speakers and men of God in the five blocs, which constitute CAN. It recognises sound theological teachings and respects the various do tribes of its members.

    “CAN does not associate with persons of dubious background who manipulate innocent Nigerians and fleece them of their hard earned resources.

    “God is not fraudulent. He has more treasures than any one man. He has everything under his control. He is not a thief that shares booty with crooks.”

    Also reacting, the Lagos State Chairman of CAN, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, dismissed the sermon as unbiblical.

    He challenged Fufeyin to provide scriptural evidence for his position, warning that such teachings could embolden people to continue in sin with the hope that their yearly offering would absolve them.

    “He (Fufeyin) is preaching out of context and he does not know what he is talking about, but we should not be disturbed by such preachers because the Bible says at end-time, there will be false teachers that are not called by God but they will say God has called them.

    “He should let us know where God gave such instruction in the scripture that when you do that then your sins are forgiven, so you can go on sinning with the hope that you have something to give at the beginning of the year,” Adegbite said.

  • “We have redirected the funds”: CAN clears air on N30m rejected by Pastor Enenche from Kebbi govt

    “We have redirected the funds”: CAN clears air on N30m rejected by Pastor Enenche from Kebbi govt

    Kebbi State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cleared the air on the N30 million donation from the Kebbi State Government publicly rejected by Pastor Paul Enenche, founder and senior pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Pastor Enenche was in Kebbi for a healing and deliverance crusade, jointly organized by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Kebbi State CAN in Birnin Kebbi.

    In a statement by Venerable Ayyuba Kanta, Kebbi CAN Chairman, the N30 million donation from the state government was not a personal gift to Pastor Enenche but a support for the two-day statewide Christian crusade.

    “We wish to make it clear to the general public and the state government that the N30 million gift was in support of the Kebbi State Healing and Deliverance Crusade held in Birnin Kebbi.

    “The event was jointly organized by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Kebbi State Chapter of CAN,” the statement read.

    According to CAN, Pastor Dr. Paul Enenche, who ministered during the crusade, has a personal policy of not accepting gifts during his evangelical or philanthropic engagements.

    As a result, he advised that the funds be used at the discretion of the state CAN leadership for developmental projects.

    The association disclosed that the funds have since been redirected towards the construction of a perimeter fence at the Christian cemetery recently approved by Governor Nasir Idris.

    CAN also expressed deep appreciation to Governor Idris for releasing the state stadium for the crusade, the banquet hall of the Presidential Lodge for the ministers’ meeting, and facilitating the distribution of palliatives to students and women during the event.

    Reaffirming the cordial relationship between the Christian community and the Kebbi State Government, Kanta described Governor Idris as “a jolly friend of all Christians and CAN leadership in the state.”

  • Benue killings: CAN reacts as Tinubu plans visit

    Benue killings: CAN reacts as Tinubu plans visit

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Federal Government to deploy additional security forces to Benue to address recent killings of over 200 lives.

    CAN also call on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the worst-hit areas.

    The president of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

    Okoh expressed the association’s deep sorrow and solidarity with the bereaved families, praying for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.

    CAN also insisted on a thorough and transparent investigation, calling for the swift prosecution of all those that are responsible for the killings.

    “The recent massacre which targeted several communities in Benue, left families shattered and villages in despair.

    “These senseless killings have inflicted immeasurable pain, hence the need for justice and protection of the vulnerable populations.

    “For years, Benue has suffered recurrent violence, often attributed to armed groups. In spite of repeated outcries, meaningful intervention has been lacking, leading to a cycle of impunity and further bloodshed.

    “Justice must prevail to break the grip of impunity fueling these atrocities,” Okoh said.

    He appealed to the international community for support in restoring peace and rebuilding trust among Benue’s traumatised residents.

    Okoh reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to defend the sanctity of life, advocating for the protection and dignity of all Nigerians.

    “As an association, we pray for peace to be restored, and justice rolled down like waters,” he said.

    In a related development, CAN expressed grief over the passing of Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of CAN in Plateau, who died on June 15, following a brief illness.

    Okoh described Lubo as a “beacon of faith and service,” whose loss would be felt not only by the Christian community but by the entire nation.

    “CAN stands in solidarity with Gov. Caleb Mutfwang, the government and people of Plateau, the Catholic Church, and the bereaved family.”

    The association urged Christians and Nigerians to honour the memory of Lubo by continuing his work of peace, justice, and unity.

    Tinubu to visit Benue over crisis

    Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has been scheduled to travel to Benue on June 18 as part of renewed efforts to foster peace and address the persistent conflict affecting communities in the state.

    The President’s visit aims to assess firsthand the recurring crisis that has claimed numerous lives and caused destruction, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement on Monday.

    “During his stay, President Tinubu will meet with all stakeholders—including traditional rulers, political, religious, community leaders, and youth groups—to seek lasting solutions to the hostilities.

    “In preparation for the visit, President Tinubu has already dispatched the SGF, the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Defence Committees to Benue State.

    “The President is expected to hold a town hall meeting with all stakeholders during the visit,” said the statement.

    President Tinubu had previously condemned the ongoing violence in Benue and called on all leaders and residents to embrace peace, love, and mutual understanding.

    He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to all those who have suffered losses as a result of the crisis.

    According to the statement, the President has rescheduled his planned visit to Kaduna on Wednesday, to commission various projects, to June 19.

  • Plateau CAN chairman dies 2 weeks after tragic car accident

    Plateau CAN chairman dies 2 weeks after tragic car accident

    Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, the Chairman of the Plateau Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), is dead.

    Lubo, a priest of the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos, died in the early hours of Sunday at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).

    Two weeks ago Lubo was involved a tragic car accident, where he sustained a head injury.

    Rev. Fr. Daniel Gyang, the Chancellor of the archdiocese, confirmed the incident to newsmen on Sunday in Jos.

    “On a sad note, but with total submission to the will of God, we announce the passing unto eternal glory of Very Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo.

    “He passed on to eternal glory in the early hours of Sunday, June 15.

    “The Archbishop condoles with his immediate family, CAN in Plateau, the presbyterium of Jos and the parishioners of St. William’s Parish, Zawan, where he was the Parish Priest.

    “The archbishop equally commiserates with all the Religious and lay faithful of the archdiocese over this loss,”he Gyang said.

    The chancellor said that burial arrangements for the deceased would be announced in due course.

  • Nigeria’s democracy work in progress – CAN

    Nigeria’s democracy work in progress – CAN

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter has described Nigeria’s democracy as a work in progress.

    Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju, the chapter’s Chairman said this in an interview in Ibadan, on Thursday.

    Akinyemiju noted that President Bola Tinubu’s two years in office had been a challenging period for all Nigerians.

    According to him, we know how we started but it can be said that we are improving as a Nation.

    ”Though there are challenges like insecurity, inflation and other socio-economic issues that result from subsidy removal and devaluation of the Naira, there is optimism that improvements are catching up.

    “As much as we can say that religious balance is seen in almost every sector, there are areas where Christians seem to be at the receiving end.

    “This is especially in cases where it is expected that government should act appropriately but failed to do so.

    ”Example is the closure of schools in some states during Ramadan period, the compulsory introduction of Islamic Religious Studies even in Christian schools, sentencing a Christian to death for defending himself against a Fulani herdsman and so on,” he told NAN.

    The can boss appealed to the Federal Government to pay more attention to the issues of insecurity and other challenges that were tormenting the citizenry.

    He also urged the government to ensure justice, fairness and equity in all areas to promote peaceful co-existence.

    “Gov. Seyi Makinde has been a wonderful leader, but he needs to understand the sensitive nature of religion in the state more and know that balancing is very important.

    “On the socio-economic aspect, government needs to borrow a leaf from South Africa and  other African Nations who have learnt how to translate their population to economy strength,” Akinyemiju said.

    Similarly, Pastor Francis Oghuma, Senior Pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Ibadan, likened Nigeria’s democracy to a constantly growing fetus heading strongly toward manifestation in the womb with patience.

    Oghuma said that situation called for constant watching and praying by Nigerians and especially Christians.

    “This is where we need more of our unity in diversity by dishing out the best of our talents, developmental values, putting on the breast plate of integrity and reliability in the labouring room of a growing democratic fetus and aggressively ready to kill the corruption-pest.

    “President Bola Tinubu’s administration is barely two years to rule the sharpness of its shaft.

    “However, it started with a determined change which came with excruciating pain, just like any serious early farmer who tilled in the very hardness of the season and patiently enduring the dust of the earth in preparations for rain.

    “Therefore as Christians we must give our best and intercede to sustain the rain for harvest,” he said.

    On performance of the present administration in the state, the cleric said that Gov. Seyi Makinde’s government was a litmus test of expected joy and delivering of the dividends of democracy.

    He described the administration as compelling governance geared toward a people adding that residents had felt nothing but robust economy, and infrastructural development cutting across the entire state.

  • Pastor Ibiyeomie should tell the truth, not misleading people – CAN

    Pastor Ibiyeomie should tell the truth, not misleading people – CAN

    Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State chapter, Bishop Dr. Stephen Adegbite has frowned at the sermon of founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie that Jesus Christ hates poverty.

    Ibiyeomie, in a viral video on social media, was seen telling his congregation that Jesus never visited any poor person’s home, which he interpreted as a sign of divine disapproval of poverty.

    He further stated that Christ’s death and resurrection were not only to bring salvation but also to free believers from poverty.

    Reacting to the sermon while speaking with PUNCH, warned Christians not to be misled by the teachings of what he called “fake pastors” who prioritise wealth over truth.

    “He (Ibiyeomie) should not be misleading people and he should tell people the truth and nothing but the truth. For us, Jesus is a lover of the poor and he identified with them and that is one of the reasons why He came into the world.

    “By their fruits we shall know them. They (pastors) can make anything, they can make billions, that is not Christianity, that is not the faith that we know. The message Jesus wants us to preach is about salvation because that is whole essence of Christ coming,” Adegbite said.

  • Palm Sunday: CAN appeals for peace, condemns Plateau killings

    Palm Sunday: CAN appeals for peace, condemns Plateau killings

    Christians around the world mark Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for peace and unity in the country.

    Extending warm greetings to all the faithful and people of goodwill across the nation on Palm Sunday, CAN said the sacred occasion invites citizens to reflect deeply on the life and mission of Jesus Christ, whose message of peace, humility, and sacrificial love remains as urgent today as it was over two thousand years ago.

    This was contained in a statement released by the Christian body on Sunday, and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.

    The umbrella body for Christians in Nigeria also strongly condemned the recent wave of brutal killings in Plateau State, particularly the April 4, 2025 attacks that claimed dozens of innocent lives in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.

    It added that the acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace.

    CAN called on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

    The statement read in part, “Palm Sunday commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed with palm branches and shouts of “Hosanna!”—a powerful symbol of peace, humility, and hope.

    “This moment, recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–44, and John 12:12–19), offers enduring lessons for our nation as we navigate these uncertain and challenging times. These lessons are especially pertinent as we are once again confronted with a painful reminder of the fragility of peace in our land.

    With deep sorrow, CAN strongly condemns the recent wave of brutal killings in Plateau State, particularly the attacks of 4 April 2025, which claimed the lives of dozens of innocent citizens in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas. These senseless acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace.

    “We call on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice. We also urge the government—at all levels—to intensify its efforts to secure all communities and prevent further bloodshed. The continued loss of lives in such tragic circumstances is simply unacceptable.

    “We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and the people of Plateau State. May God grant comfort to the grieving, healing to the wounded, and peace to every troubled heart. In times like these, we are reminded that true leadership is most vital when lives are at risk and communities are in distress.

    “In this critical moment, we call on our leaders to rise to the occasion with humility and a clear sense of purpose. Jesus’ choice to enter Jerusalem on a donkey—symbolising peace and servanthood—remains a timeless example. Our leaders must embrace the principles of servant leadership, placing the welfare of the people above personal or political interests. Amidst insecurity, economic hardship, and displacement, let their actions be marked by compassion, justice, and a steadfast commitment to national healing.

    In the same spirit, we appeal to all Nigerians—regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation—to rise above division and embrace our shared identity as one people under God. Just as the diverse crowds in Jerusalem were united in hope, so too must we come together with a common purpose: to heal our land and build a future grounded in mutual respect, compassion, and solidarity.

    “Palm Sunday reminds us that even in times of trial, there is hope. The journey to national renewal begins with each of us. Let us be mindful of our words and actions, choosing to be peacemakers in our homes, communities, and workplaces. Through a shared commitment to truth and justice, we can overcome the pain of the present and help shape a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

    “As we lift our palm branches today, let them serve not only as symbols of worship but as signs of our collective resolve to work for a peaceful and united Nigeria. May God grant us wisdom, courage, and grace in these trying times. We pray for our leaders, that they may be guided by divine insight; for our people, that they may draw strength from unity; and for our nation, that peace may reign in every corner.

    “God bless you all, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

  • CAN reacts over closure of schools during Ramadan

    CAN reacts over closure of schools during Ramadan

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described the decision by some northern state governments to close all schools throughout the Ramadan fasting period as counterproductive.

    This is contained in a statement signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Sunday in Abuja

    Some states in the north, like Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi, have directed that all schools should be closed during Ramadan.

    According to CAN, such decisions raise serious issues of equity, educational continuity, and the welfare of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.

    CAN said the closures would disrupt education in a region that was already grappling with high rates of out-of-school children averaging 44 per cent, and undermine equity in governance.

    “The closure of schools across these northern states, ranging from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period will disrupt academic schedules, and threaten the educational advancement of millions of students.

    “These states are already facing alarming rates of out-of-school children, averaging 44 per cent according to recent data, far exceeding the national average.

    “Such prolonged breaks risk deepening this crisis, undermining efforts to ensure access to quality education for all,” CAN said.

    CAN also said that, while it respected religious practices, it was dismayed by the lack of broad consultation with stakeholders, prior to taking the decisions.

    The association further gave global examples, such as what it said obtained in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where schools remained open with adjusted schedules during Ramadan.

    It called for dialogue involving religious leaders, educators, and parents to reassess the policy.

    CAN warned that if inclusive solutions were not reached, it may pursue legal action to protect the students’ constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience.

    It, therefore, called for calm and peaceful engagement on the development, adding that fairness and national cohesion were of critical importance.