The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cautioned politicians and their supporters against bringing the name of Jesus Christ into partisan political arguments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, issued the warning amid growing political activities surrounding the 2027 elections.
Okoh’s comments followed a recent controversy involving Precious Oruche, popularly known as Mama Pee, who reportedly referenced Jesus Christ while discussing Labour Party figure Peter Obi and the 2027 presidential contest.
According to the CAN president, political debates may be intense, but religious figures and sacred beliefs should not be turned into instruments for promoting individual politicians or political parties.
Okoh stressed that Jesus Christ should not be presented as a political candidate, campaign slogan or means of attacking an opponent.
He acknowledged that Nigerians have the constitutional right to support any candidate of their choice, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi or other contenders.
However, he warned against portraying politicians in terms that could blur the distinction between political leadership and spiritual salvation.
The CAN president described the tendency to attach a messianic identity to politicians as “messianic politics,” warning that no political leader should be elevated to a position reserved for God.
Okoh also urged political actors and their supporters to concentrate their campaigns and debates on issues that directly affect the country.
He identified competence, character, policies, performance and the future direction of Nigeria as more appropriate areas of political debate ahead of the election.
“Let us disagree passionately if necessary, but let us leave Jesus Christ out of our partisan quarrels,” the CAN president said.
The Christian body further encouraged Nigerians to participate responsibly in the political process and maintain respect for the country’s religious values as campaigns for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
The warning comes as political parties and prospective candidates intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) having opened the political campaign season for the presidential and National Assembly elections on August 19, 2026.
