The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cautioned political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying no politician should be presented as the Messiah.

“As the 2027 political season approaches, CAN again reminds all political actors that no politician is the Messiah,” CAN president Daniel Okoh said in a statement marking Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary on Thursday.

“Christians are free to support or criticise any candidate, but the name of Jesus Christ must not be dragged into partisan rivalry or used as a political weapon,” he added.

Mr Okoh reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to remain a non-partisan moral voice, commending what is right and holding leaders to the values of justice, accountability and compassion.

He said CAN welcomed the federal government’s shift from economic reforms to prosperity but urged it to ensure that prosperity is felt in every home.

Mr Okoh said progress must translate into tangible improvements in citizens’ lives.

“The true test of progress is not in statistics alone. It is whether families can afford food, young people can find decent work, communities can live in safety, and every child has a fair opportunity to build a future,” Mr Okoh said.

He urged the government to make lower food, transport and energy costs a measurable priority, saying Nigerians who had endured years of economic pressure deserved to begin seeing meaningful relief in their daily lives.

According to him, social protection must also reach those who need it most.

“Support for vulnerable families, education, healthcare and affordable credit should be strengthened, transparently administered and protected from diversion.

“Prosperity that does not reach the ordinary Nigerian home remains incomplete,” he said.

Mr Okoh said there could be no meaningful prosperity where citizens could not farm, trade, travel, or sleep peacefully for fear.

“We urge sustained action to protect lives, secure communities and restore confidence across the country,” he said.

(NAN)