2027: Don’t weaponize religion, ethnicity, regional sentiments – CAN charges politicians

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has called on political actors to place Nigeria above their personal interest.

CAN made the call when its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh addressed the press as part of the activities to mark its 50th anniversary.

“We expect political campaigns to be issue-based and focused on competing ideas about how to improve the lives of Nigerians.

Political parties and candidates must resist the temptation to weaponize religion, ethnicity and regional sentiments,” Archbishop Okoh said.

The apex Christian body noted that Nigerians have witnessed enough bloodshed and division during election periods, adding, “We do not want another generation of Nigerian youths sacrificed on the altar of political ambition.”

CAN called on political leaders to take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters and discourage incitement, hate speech, violence and intimidation.

“Every Nigerian must be free to vote according to his or her conscience, without coercion, intimidation or manipulation,” Okoh added.

CAN said it will continue to support credible democratic processes, civic education, peaceful elections and electoral integrity.

“Our message to politicians is clear: Elections should be a contest of ideas, not a contest of violence; a competition for public service, not a licence for personal destruction,” he stated.

Speaking further, CAN said it is deeply concerned about the economic hardship confronting ordinary Nigerians.

“The rising cost of living has placed enormous pressure on families. Young people are struggling to find meaningful employment. Small businesses are struggling to survive. Parents are finding it increasingly difficult to provide food, healthcare, education and housing for their families,” CAN noted.

“The Church sees these realities every day.

People come into our churches not only with spiritual needs but with hunger, unemployment, medical bills, school fees, housing challenges and uncertainty about the future.

“We, therefore, encourage government to continue pursuing policies that stimulate productive economic activity, create meaningful employment, support small and medium-sized enterprises and protect the most vulnerable members of society.

“Every economic policy must ultimately be judged by its impact on the people. Economic reform cannot become an abstract exercise divorced from the realities of ordinary families.

“We must also learn as a nation to raise and place in public office leaders who understand that public office is a trust and not an opportunity for personal enrichment,” Okoh said.

2027: Don’t weaponize religion, ethnicity, regional sentiments – CAN charges politicians