The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, has warned residents, groups and bodies against claiming to act in its name to endorse candidates and political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The association’s chairman, Elisha Ogundiya, said in a statement on Monday that CAN had received reports of some individuals and groups claiming to act in the name of the Christian body.

He said they were endorsing candidates and political parties in preparation for the forthcoming elections across various constituencies, senatorial districts, and the state.

Mr Ogundiya said the executive received reports of such endorsements, particularly from its zonal arm in Oke-Ogun, and skirmishes from other parts of the association within the state.

The chairman emphasised that CAN, at all levels, would not endorse any candidate or political party.

He stressed that CAN has no affiliation with any political party or political interest group.

Mr Ogundiya noted that CAN recognised that its members cut across all political parties and interest groups.

The CAN chairman noted that all Christians have the inherent right to actively participate in the electioneering process by registering as voters, collecting their permanent voter cards (PVCs), voting and ensuring that their votes count.

He added that all Christians have the freedom to join and associate with any political party of their choice.

Mr Ogundiya called on all political actors and players to ensure that the forthcoming election is free and fair and geared toward credibility and integrity.

He appealed to groups or bodies claiming to act for the Christian body to refrain from such actions for the sake of the integrity of the body of Christ.

The chairman urged all to be law-abiding and steadfast in prayer for a credible election and that a leader after God’s heart will be elected.

(NAN)