By Umar Bakari, Maiduguri.
The Borno State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has debunked claims that it has adopted or endorsed the Political candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial elections.
Speaking at a press conference held at St. Patrick Church in Maiduguri on Wednesday that the Borno State Chairman of CAN, Rev Dr John Bogna Bakeni, emphasized that the association has not endorsed any political candidate, and the rumors claiming otherwise are false and divisive.
“Let me say categorically that CAN is not a political party and will never be. The state CAN has not endorsed any political candidate who sort audience with her and will never do so. CAN has not receive any Money from any politician as form of voter inducement” said Dr. John.
He further added, “Such rumors are divisive and not part of our mandate. We urge all politicians to desist from such acts, which are aimed at causing confusion among our members.”
The rumors about the endorsement have been in circulation for over two weeks, which Dr. John said is a campaign for calumny and blackmail against CAN. He also called on all politicians and the government to be aware of fraudulent groups operating under the guise of CAN.
“We have received reports of some fraudulent groups that are using the name of CAN to perpetrate their selfish interests,” said Dr. John. “We, therefore, call on all politicians and government officials to verify the authenticity of any group claiming to be under CAN apart from the Youth Wing and the women Wing and ensure that they deal only with the recognized and legitimate leadership of CAN in the state.”
The Borno State Christian Association of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to remain neutral and impartial in the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in the state. The association is calling on all political parties and candidates to play by the rules and avoid any act that could lead to violence or cause chaos in the state.
Dr. John assured the people of Borno that CAN will continue to work towards ensuring peaceful coexistence among different religious groups in the state, and urged all to join hands to build a united and prosperous Borno State.
