Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged political actors to prioritize national unity over personal ambition, emphasizing that elections should be a contest of ideas, not violence. In a statement delivered by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, during events marking CAN’s 50th anniversary, the apex Christian body called for issue-based campaigns free from religious, ethnic, or regional manipulation. Archbishop Okoh stressed that Nigerians have endured too much bloodshed and division during past election cycles, and warned against sacrificing another generation of youths to political greed.
He emphasized that political parties and candidates must resist using religion, ethnicity, or regional sentiments as tools for mobilization. “We expect political campaigns to be issue-based and focused on competing ideas about how to improve the lives of Nigerians,” Okoh stated. He also called on leaders to take responsibility for their supporters, urging them to discourage hate speech, incitement, violence, and intimidation. Every Nigerian, he added, must be free to vote according to conscience, without coercion or manipulation.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting credible democratic processes, civic education, peaceful elections, and electoral integrity. The organization’s message to politicians was clear: elections should serve as a platform for public service, not personal destruction. It also expressed deep concern over the worsening economic hardship facing ordinary Nigerians, citing rising costs of living, unemployment, and struggles faced by small businesses.
“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,” Okoh said. He called on the government to implement policies that stimulate productive economic activity, create meaningful employment, and support small and medium enterprises. He insisted that every economic policy must be judged by its real impact on ordinary families, not abstract theories.
Archbishop Okoh further urged Nigerians to elect leaders who understand that public office is a trust, not an avenue for personal enrichment. As the nation prepares for the 2027 elections, CAN’s call underscores the need for responsible leadership, ethical campaigning, and inclusive development. The organization remains committed to fostering peace and promoting good governance in the years ahead.
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