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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has tackled Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry, Ilorin, Kwara State, for the recent remarks alleging diversion of funds purportedly meant for the relief of persecuted Christians in northern Nigeria.
The Association also noted with dismay the alleged division within the CAN along northern and southern lines also championed by the same Rev. Omolehin.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement, yesterday, said the allegations are entirely false, unfounded, and deliberately misleading. “For the avoidance of doubt, CAN has neither received nor managed any such relief funds as alleged, and no funds have been diverted under any circumstance. The narrative being promoted by Rev. Omolehin is a fabrication calculated to misinform the public, erode trust, and bring the Church into disrepute.”
He said CAN remains one united and indivisible body, insisting that there is no split, no secession, and no division within CAN structure, and that any suggestion to the contrary is false and should be disregarded.
“CAN will continue to work in unity with Christian leaders across all regions of Nigeria, with a steadfast commitment to peace, accountability, and the welfare of all believers, especially those affected by insecurity.
“We are deeply troubled that these baseless claims were publicly propagated by Rev. Omolehin without evidence and without regard for the potential consequences on national cohesion and the unity of the Church.
“We also note, with concern, the unwarranted references to respected Christian leaders; Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor William Kumuyi, in a manner capable of misleading the faithful and inflaming unnecessary tensions.
“Let it be unequivocally stated that CAN will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods or any attempt to malign the Church. Accordingly, we issue a firm and final caution to Rev. Omolehin and any other individuals or groups who misuse their platforms to disseminate unverified or defamatory claims: desist immediately. Failure to do so will compel the Association to take all necessary steps, including legal action, to protect its integrity and that of the Christian community.”
He urged the public, the media, and the international community to disregard the false claims, and rely only on verified information from official CAN channels. “CAN remains steadfast in its commitment to truth, unity, accountability and service to all Nigerians,” he said.
