The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has urged politicians to prioritize Nigeria's interests over personal ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections. CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the call during a press conference marking the organization's 50th anniversary. He emphasized the need for issue-based campaigns, focusing on competing ideas to improve Nigerians' lives. Okoh stressed that politicians must resist the temptation to exploit religion, ethnicity, and regional sentiments for political gain.
Archbishop Okoh noted that Nigerians have witnessed enough bloodshed and division during election periods, and called on political leaders to take responsibility for their supporters' conduct. He discouraged incitement, hate speech, violence, and intimidation, ensuring that every Nigerian can vote according to their conscience without coercion or manipulation. CAN vowed to support credible democratic processes, civic education, peaceful elections, and electoral integrity.
The apex Christian body expressed concern about the economic hardship facing ordinary Nigerians, with the rising cost of living placing enormous pressure on families. Young people struggle to find meaningful employment, while small businesses face survival challenges. Parents find it increasingly difficult to provide basic necessities like food, healthcare, education, and housing. CAN urged the government to pursue policies stimulating productive economic activity and protecting vulnerable members of society.
CAN encouraged the government to prioritize the needs of ordinary families when implementing economic policies. Okoh emphasized that economic reform must be judged by its impact on the people, not just abstract exercises. He called for leaders who understand that public office is a trust, not an opportunity for personal enrichment.
The Christian Association of Nigeria emphasized that elections should be a contest of ideas, not violence, and a competition for public service, not a licence for personal destruction. Okoh's message to politicians was clear: prioritize the nation's interests and focus on issue-based campaigns.
Ahead of the 2027 elections, CAN's call for responsible politicking resonates with Nigerians who have been affected by previous election-related violence and division. The organization's efforts to promote peaceful elections and credible democratic processes are crucial in ensuring that the upcoming elections are free, fair, and transparent.
As the 2027 general elections approach, Nigerians will be watching to see if politicians heed CAN's call for issue-based campaigns and responsible leadership. The Christian Association of Nigeria's emphasis on prioritizing the nation's interests and promoting peaceful elections serves as a reminder of the critical role that civil society organizations play in shaping the country's democratic trajectory.
Key points
- CAN urges politicians to focus on issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The organization emphasizes the need for responsible leadership and credible democratic processes.
- CAN expresses concern about the economic hardship facing ordinary Nigerians and urges the government to prioritize their needs.
