CAN distances self from political endorsements, seeks credible poll

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The Christian Association of Nigeria, Kwara State chapter, has declared that it will remain neutral and non-partisan ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying its primary concern is the conduct of peaceful, free, fair, and credible polls across the state and Nigeria.

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The association said it would continue to encourage responsible civic participation among Christians and the general public, while providing spiritual and moral guidance rooted in peace, truth, and justice.

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In a statement signed by its Kwara State Chairman, Bishop Sunday Adewole, and made available to The PUNCH on Friday, the body distanced itself from recent political endorsements allegedly linked to Christian groups and leaders in the state.

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It said any endorsement or political alignment by individuals or groups should not be interpreted as the official position of CAN in Kwara State.

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“The attention of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, has been drawn to recent reports, public statements, and political engagements suggesting that the Christian community in Kwara State, or certain Christian organisations, have endorsed particular political parties or candidates ahead of forthcoming political activities and elections,” the statement read.

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“For the avoidance of doubt, the Christian Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, wishes to unequivocally state that such views, endorsements, or political alignments are purely personal opinions and positions of the individuals or groups involved and do not represent or constitute the official position of CAN Kwara State,” it added.

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The association said it remained committed to promoting peace, unity, justice, moral values and harmonious coexistence among residents irrespective of political, ethnic or religious affiliations.

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“CAN Kwara State remains firmly non-partisan, neutral, and apolitical in all electoral matters. As the umbrella body representing Christians across denominations in the state, CAN neither belongs to nor campaigns for any political party or candidate,” Adewole stated.

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The body added that while Christians and religious organisations have constitutional rights to political participation and freedom of association, such actions must not be presented as official positions of CAN.

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“Any individual, church group, or Christian organisation expressing support for any political party or candidate does so strictly in their personal capacity and not on behalf of CAN Kwara State, unless expressly authorised by the constituted leadership of the association,” the statement added.

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The clarification comes amid increasing political consultations and alignments ahead of the 2027 elections, with political actors and interest groups intensifying grassroots mobilisation across Kwara State and other parts of the country.

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CAN reiterated that its focus remains on praying for credible elections and encouraging issue-based political engagement aimed at sustaining peace and stability.

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