The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on politicians to prioritize national interest over personal ambition as the 2027 General election approaches. CAN President, Most Reverend Daniel Okoh, made the appeal while briefing newsmen on the Association's 50th Anniversary activities in Abuja. He emphasized the need for politicians to follow the rules of engagement and work towards the unity and progress of the country.
Most Reverend Okoh stressed that political leaders must take responsibility for the actions of their followers and avoid using unconstitutional means to pursue their political ambitions. He urged all Nigerians to reject politics of hatred and pledged that CAN would support credible democratic processes, civil education, peaceful elections, and electoral integrity. According to him, elections should be a contest of ideas, not a contest of violence or a license for personal destruction.
The CAN President highlighted the Association's roles in nation-building, particularly in education, health, and humanitarian services. He assured that CAN would continue to speak out to defend the rights of its members through meaningful engagement with the government, religious, and traditional institutions for national development. Most Reverend Okoh also expressed worry over the effect of insecurity on Christian communities across the country.
While commending the Federal government's efforts to address insecurity, Most Reverend Okoh believed that more could still be achieved. He urged security agencies to strengthen their architecture in protecting lives and property of citizens. The CAN President also stressed the need for the government to address the high cost of living, as the ongoing reforms and economic policies were biting hard on citizens.
According to Most Reverend Okoh, the Church, which is closer to the people, is aware that citizens are groaning under the current economic conditions. He noted that the rising cost of living has placed enormous pressure on families, with young people struggling to survive and parents finding it increasingly difficult to provide basic necessities like food, healthcare, education, and housing.
Most Reverend Okoh assured that CAN would not relent in supporting and defending programs and policies that will promote national development. He emphasized the Association's commitment to working with the government and other stakeholders to address the challenges facing the country. The CAN President's remarks come as the 2027 General election gathers momentum, with various stakeholders calling for peaceful and credible polls.
The Christian Association of Nigeria's push for peaceful elections and national development reflects its commitment to promoting the well-being of its members and the broader Nigerian society. As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, CAN's voice joins those of other stakeholders calling for a peaceful, transparent, and inclusive electoral process that prioritizes national interest over personal ambition.
Key points
- CAN urges politicians to prioritize national interest over personal ambition ahead of 2027 elections
- The Association calls for peaceful elections, credible democratic processes, and electoral integrity
- CAN expresses concern over insecurity and high cost of living, urging government action
