Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Christian Association of Nigeria has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations of a North-South rift within its leadership and the diversion of funds meant for persecuted Christians in Northern Nigeria, describing the claims as "false, malicious, and deeply defamatory."
In a statement released on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Abuja, the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, expressed grave concern over what he described as a calculated campaign of misinformation orchestrated by Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of the Word Assembly Ministry in Ilorin, Kwara State .
"We state, in the clearest possible terms: these allegations are entirely false, unfounded, and deliberately misleading," Archbishop Okoh declared. The association specifically refuted claims that it had received any funds designated for the relief of persecuted Christians in the North, stressing that it has neither managed nor diverted any such finances. "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 is a fabrication, calculated to misinform the public, erode trust, and bring the Church into disrepute," the statement read .
The apex Christian body also took strong exception to suggestions that it is fractured along regional lines. Insisting that it remains "one united and indivisible body," CAN warned that any claims suggesting a split, secession, or division within its structure are categorically false and should be disregarded by the public . "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," Archbishop Okoh added .
While the statement did not name specific accusers in the initial paragraph, it became clear that the allegations originated from Rev. Isaac Omolehin, who had reportedly questioned the leadership structure of the church and made references to prominent Christian leaders.
CAN expressed deep concern that these baseless claims were publicly propagated without evidence, showing a disregard for the potential consequences on national cohesion and the unity of the Church .
In a stern warning to the cleric, the association stated that it will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods or any attempt to malign the Church. "Accordingly, we issue a firm and final caution to Rev. Isaac 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," the statement warned .
The association also expressed displeasure over the unwarranted references to respected Christian leaders such as Pastor Enoch Adeboye (Redeemed Christian Church of God), Bishop David Oyedepo (Living Faith Church), and Pastor William Kumuyi (Deeper Christian Life Ministry) . CAN noted that these references were made in a manner capable of misleading the faithful and inflaming unnecessary tensions within the body of Christ.
This official response marks a significant shift from silence to direct confrontation by the Christian leadership in Nigeria. It aims to halt the spread of misinformation that could destabilize the largest Christian umbrella body in the country. As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the unity of such a significant socio-political bloc is often subject to intense scrutiny and pressure.
CAN has urged the public, the media, and the international community to disregard these false claims and rely only on verified information from official CAN channels. The association reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, truth, and the welfare of all Nigerians, particularly those suffering from the effects of insecurity in various parts of the country .
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