The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has said that it has not endorsed any presidential candidate.
The was contained in a statement signed by the umbrella body of Christians in Nigeria.
CAN also said that its expectation is that whoever emerges as President will address the various issues Nigeria is facing.
The statement reads: “So, the idea of endorsing any candidate as favourite does not arise. We have not and will not endorse any candidate for any elective office in the country.
“You will recall that CAN recently met with some leading Presidential candidates in Abuja to interact with them and to present our position of the State of the Nation to them and to listen to their manifestoes and programmes.
“At the end of the meeting, we came out with a position without endorsing any of the candidates.
“CAN recognizes Nigeria’s multi-religious and multicultural composition and is not in denial of these realities. However, in our federal system, it is crucial for all constituents to commit to respect of the fundamental human rights of other groups as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution as amended.
“It is against this background that CAN raised serious concerns with the candidates over the sustained violent attacks on, and persecution of the Church in Nigeria today.
“CAN understands that if the principle of good governance (transparency, accountability, equity, inclusiveness and consensus building) are the hallmarks of governance, it would lead to accelerated development and prosperity for the people of Nigeria. This is our sincere desire, hope and prayer.
“Our expectations are that whoever emerges as president and vice-president will address the myriad of critical national concerns.”
Alleged money gift to CAN
Recently, the National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) alleged that the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) collected N40 million from President Buhari.
NCEF also accused CAN president, Rev. (Dr) Samson Olasupo Ayokunle of abuse of office.
The CAN president however dismissed the allegations describing it as an attempt to tarnish his image.