The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja has opposed the formation of a new group known as Christians Elders of the North, alleging that the group was formed to undermine the association in the region.
In a statement made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Wednesday – earlier today, February 26 – and signed by the Secretary-General, Northern CAN, Elder Sunday Oibe, CAN noted that, “While we respect everyone’s right to freedom of association and the formation of groups, we strongly oppose any organisation created with the intent of destabilising or undermining others.”
“It has come to our attention that this so-called group recently convened in Abuja and conducted an election to appoint a new leadership for Northern CAN.
“We find it deeply troubling that one group would attempt to conduct elections for another. Such actions are not only improper but also unlawful.
“We call on members of the public to disregard the purported election of leadership for Northern CAN as carried out by the Christians Elders of the North.
“Their action is not only unlawful and mischievous but is calculated to ridicule the Christian body for selfish interest. We want to make it very clear that the executives of Northern CAN are headed by Rev. Yakubu Pam.
“Anybody parading himself as the ‘elected Chairman’ of Northern CAN is an impostor and a desperado.
“We urge this group to halt their undemocratic and self-serving actions, as they serve no constructive purpose.
“If they are truly interested in the leadership of Northern CAN, we encourage them to join the association and participate in its election process at the appropriate time.
“We called on all our members to be calm and pray against forces that are out to cause confusion in Northern CAN for their selfish interests.”
