The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has cautioned politicians and their supporters against invoking the name of Jesus Christ to advance partisan interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, issued the warning in a statement released in Abuja, expressing concern over recent political comments that reference Christ in relation to political figures, particularly remarks by Precious Oruche, popularly known as Mama Pee, about Peter Obi and the upcoming elections.
Okoh acknowledged the passion surrounding political debates but stressed that the name of Jesus Christ is sacred and should not be drawn into partisan rivalry.
“Jesus Christ is not a political candidate, a campaign slogan, or a weapon to advance one politician against another.
“His name is sacred and should not be dragged into partisan contests in ways that elevate human beings, however popular or admired, to a place that belongs to God alone,” he said.
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The CAN president said citizens have the right to support or criticize any political figure, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Tinubu, but warned against allowing political loyalty to become excessive.
“Our political loyalty must never become so intense that we begin to speak of politicians in terms that diminish the reverence due to Christ.
“Let us argue about competence, character, policies, performance, and the future of Nigeria. Let us disagree passionately if necessary, but let us leave Jesus Christ out of our partisan quarrels,” Okoh said.
He stressed that no political candidate or party should be portrayed as a source of spiritual salvation or the ultimate solution to human needs.
“No politician is the Messiah. No political party represents the salvation of the human spirit that Christ epitomizes. And no electoral victory is worth compromising the honour due to His name,” he added.
Okoh urged political actors, campaign teams and voters across the country to exercise restraint, responsibility and mutual respect as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
NAN
