The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has advised Nigerians to refrain from invoking the name of Jesus Christ in the context of partisan political disputes as the 2027 general elections approach.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, delivered this caution in light of recent remarks made by Precious Oruche, commonly referred to as Mama Pee, who allegedly referenced Jesus Christ while discussing a political matter involving Peter Obi and the upcoming elections.
The Christian organization recognized that political conversations can evoke strong emotions and that such references may sometimes aim to underscore a specific argument. Nevertheless, it called upon Christians and other Nigerians to practice greater caution when mentioning Jesus in political discussions.
According to CAN, political disagreements ought to center on topics such as leadership qualities, character, policies, governance, and the future trajectory of Nigeria.
“Jesus Christ is neither a political candidate, a campaign slogan, nor a tool to promote one politician over another,” the association asserted.
CAN emphasized that Christians possess the right to support or critique any political figure, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Bola Tinubu. However, it cautioned that political allegiance should not lead to language that diminishes the respect Christians hold for Christ.
The organization also warned against depicting any politician as a savior.
“No politician is the Messiah,” CAN stated, adding that no electoral success should come at the cost of what Christians deem sacred.
As political activities ramp up in anticipation of the 2027 elections, Archbishop Okoh urged politicians, their supporters, and the general public to engage in political discourse with responsibility.
He encouraged Nigerians to uphold respect and restraint, even amidst intense political disagreements, while ensuring that religious beliefs remain distinct from partisan rivalry.
