The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cautioned politicians and their supporters against invoking the name of Jesus Christ to advance partisan interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, gave the warning in a press statement released on Wednesday in Abuja.
Okoh expressed concern over recent political commentary referencing Christ, specifically pointing to remarks made by Precious Oruche, popularly known as Mama Pee, regarding Peter Obi and the upcoming elections.
While acknowledging the passionate nature of political discourse, the CAN President emphasised that the name of Jesus Christ is sacred and must not be dragged into political rivalry.
”Jesus Christ is not a political candidate, a campaign slogan, or a weapon to advance one politician against another.
“His name is sacred and should not be dragged into partisan contests in ways that elevate human beings, however popular or admired, to a place that belongs to God alone,” he said.
The cleric clarified that citizens remain fully entiled to support or criticise any political figure, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, or President Bola Tinubu, but cautioned against excessive partisan zeal.
”Our political loyalty must never become so intense that we begin to speak of politicians in terms that diminish the reverence due to Christ.
“Let us argue about competence, character, policies, performance, and the future of Nigeria. Let us disagree passionately if necessary, but let us leave Jesus Christ out of our partisan quarrels.”
He stressed that no candidate or political platform represents spiritual salvation or the ultimate solution to human needs.
”No politician is the Messiah. No political party represents the salvation of the human spirit that Christ epitomises. And no electoral victory is worth compromising the honour due to His name,” he added.
Okoh urged political actors, campaign teams, and the electorate across the country to exercise restraint, responsibility, and mutual respect as preparations for the next general elections gather momentum.(NAN)
