Adamawa CAN denies endorsing APC governorship candidate

The Christian Association of Nigeria, Adamawa State Chapter, has denied the purported endorsement of All Progressives Congress governorship candidate Tijani Galadima as its candidate for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

In a statement signed and released by the Adamawa CAN Chairman, Mr. Joel Manzo, and made available to Weekend PUNCH on Saturday, the association distanced itself from the purported endorsement of Galadima.

“We wish to address the concerns raised by members of the Christian community and the general public regarding a recent visit by a group of women who reportedly introduced themselves as leaders representing Christians in Adamawa State and publicly declared support for a governorship aspirant as ‘God’s chosen candidate,” the statement said.

“The leadership of CAN Adamawa State Chapter wishes to state clearly and unequivocally that neither the association nor any of its recognized organs authorized such a representation or pronouncement.

As the umbrella body of Christians in Adamawa State, CAN recognizes that many of its members are active participants in different political parties and may individually aspire for elective offices or support candidates of their choice. Indeed, all aspirants seeking leadership positions in the state are our sons and daughters,” it added

Manzo said it is inappropriate for any individual or group, regardless of status or position, as captured in Article 7, Sub-Article 3, Paragraph 6 of the Bye-Laws of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Adamawa State Chapter (2022), to make declarations or endorsements on behalf of CAN without the consent and approval of the duly constituted leadership of the association.

“Such actions have the potential to create misunderstanding, sow seeds of division among believers, and undermine the unity for which the Church stands,” he added.

He stated that CAN views the development with serious concern and called on those involved to exercise greater caution and responsibility.

“We therefore categorically dissociate CAN from the statements and endorsements made during the said visit,” he added.

He directed the individuals or organisations involved in the alleged unlawful endorsement to issue a public statement through the same channels used in disseminating the earlier declaration, clarifying that their position was solely their own and not that of CAN Adamawa State Chapter or its recognised organs across the 21 local government areas of the state.

CAN Adamawa State Chapter stressed that it bears no ill feelings toward any political aspirant, adding that it remains committed to neutrality while encouraging all citizens to participate responsibly in the democratic process.

“Our desire is to preserve the unity of the Church and uphold the mission and vision of the association without allowing partisan interests to create division among God’s people,” he said.

Manzo appealed to youths, church members, and all concerned Christians to refrain from making inflammatory comments, circulating unverified information, or engaging in actions that may further aggravate the situation.

“At this critical moment, we encourage all believers to remain calm, prayerful, and attentive to God’s direction and leadership. May we continually avail ourselves for His purposes and seek His will in all our endeavours,” CAN added.