The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has disowned Archbishop Chivir Chianson, declaring that he is not its general secretary and has no authority to speak or act on behalf of the association.
The association also distanced itself from a group allegedly represented by Chianson, following attempts to associate CAN with a purported church mobilisation in support of a political candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh stated this in a press release, warning that the individual and his group had no official affiliation, working relationship, or institutional connection with the association.
Okoh stressed that CAN had neither authorized nor endorsed Chianson or his group to organise, promote or undertake any political mobilisation in its name.
He cautioned that any political position, endorsement, or activity attributed to the group should not be mistaken for the official position or activities of the association.
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The CAN president said the umbrella Christian body would not allow individuals or groups without official relationships with it to appropriate its identity or exploit its name to advance political or personal interests.
Reaffirming the association’s commitment to political neutrality ahead of the 2027 general elections, Okoh said CAN would continue to engage national issues objectively and hold political leaders accountable, irrespective of their political affiliations.
He maintained that the association would not endorse or mobilize support for any political party or candidate.
The association urged Christians, members of the public and media organisations to disregard claims that Chianson and his group officially represent CAN.
It also called on TVC News and other media organisations to exercise due diligence in verifying the credentials and institutional affiliations of individuals presented as representatives of the association.
CAN further warned that it would take all appropriate steps to protect its name, identity and institutional integrity against unauthorised representation and misrepresentation.
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