The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has clarified that Archbishop Chivir Chianson does not occupy the office of its General Secretary, warning that he cannot represent the organisation or make statements in its name.
The Christian umbrella organisation also rejected any association with a group allegedly presenting itself under its identity to campaign for a political candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement released on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the association had no formal dealings with Chianson or the group he leads. He stressed that neither party had been given permission to represent the Christian organisation in any capacity.
Okoh explained that the association had not approved any arrangement allowing the cleric or his associates to use its platform for political campaigns, endorsements or other electoral activities.
He further warned that political declarations made by Chianson and his group should not be linked to CAN or presented as decisions taken by its leadership.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Archbishop Chivir Chianson is not the General Secretary of CAN and has no authority or mandate to speak or act on its behalf,” the statement said.
The development follows Chianson’s comments concerning the decision of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) to support President Bola Tinubu’s bid for another term in office. Chianson serves as the conference’s Secretary-General.
The CBCN is made up of Pentecostal and charismatic Christian ministers, including bishops and archbishops from different parts of Nigeria.
Its leader, Archbishop Leonard Bature Kawas, had publicly declared the organisation’s backing for Tinubu during its 2026 synod held in September.
Chianson also reportedly appeared on a national television programme, where he expressed certainty about Tinubu’s victory in the next presidential election. He attributed the prediction to a divine revelation, adding that the president would deliver improved performance if re-elected. PUNCH Online could not independently establish the authenticity of the reported comments.
CAN also expressed concern over attempts by people and associations without recognised links to the organisation to use its identity for interests unrelated to its mandate.
The association maintained that its position as the country’s Christian umbrella institution requires it to defend the interests of believers while contributing to discussions and initiatives that promote national progress.
Addressing its role in the 2027 electoral process, CAN said it would continue to scrutinise government actions and speak on matters affecting the country without favouring any political platform. It emphasised that its responsibility to hold public office holders accountable would remain regardless of which party they belong to.
The association therefore appealed to Christians, the public and news organisations not to recognise Chianson or his associates as authorised voices of CAN.
It also singled out TVC News and other broadcast stations, urging them to properly investigate the official positions and affiliations of guests introduced to audiences as CAN representatives.
The organisation concluded by warning that it would pursue necessary action against anyone found using its identity without approval, saying it was determined to safeguard its reputation and prevent further misrepresentation.
