CAN tackles Isaac Omolehin, denies split, missing relief funds allegations
Christian Association of Nigeria Denies Allegations of Division and Fund Misappropriation
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has dismissed recent claims suggesting a division within the organization along regional lines and allegations concerning the misappropriation of relief funds intended for persecuted Christians in Northern Nigeria.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, characterized these allegations as “false, malicious, and deeply defamatory.” He emphasized that the association has neither received nor managed any funds as suggested, describing the narrative as a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish the Church’s reputation.
“FOR the avoidance of doubt, no funds have been diverted under any circumstance,” Okoh stated. “The suggestion of a split within CAN is unfounded. We remain a united body with no secession or division.”
The statement underscored CAN’s commitment to working collaboratively with Christian leaders across Nigeria, focusing on peace, accountability, and the welfare of believers affected by insecurity.
Okoh expressed particular concern over the propagation of these claims by Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry in Ilorin, noting the lack of evidence and the potential risks to national cohesion and Church unity. He also highlighted unwarranted references to prominent Christian leaders, including Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor William Kumuyi, which could mislead congregants and fuel tensions.
“CAN will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods or attempts to malign the Church,” Okoh warned. He issued a caution to Omolehin and any individuals disseminating unverified claims, asserting that failure to cease such actions may lead the association to consider legal actions to safeguard its integrity.
The association urged the public, media, and international community to ignore the false claims and rely solely on verified information from official CAN sources.
