2027 Elections: CAN Benue Insists on Neutral Role, Offers Prayers Not Endorsements.

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Benue State chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to remain apolitical, stressing that it has neither endorsed nor will endorse any politician for elective positions.

The Deputy Chairman of CAN in Benue, Rev. Jonathan Ugbede, made this known while addressing members during the State Executive Council meeting held at the CAN Secretariat in Makurdi on Friday.
Ugbede cautioned against involving CAN in political matters, reiterating that the association has not supported any candidate and will not do so in any election.
He explained that CAN would continue to pray for political leaders, traditional rulers, and other members of society, noting that any politician who seeks prayers would receive them without hesitation.
According to him, the core responsibility of the Church is to pray. He assured that the Church in Benue would not engage in partisan politics but would remain united and committed to serving God, who ultimately crowns leaders.
He further noted that while many individuals aspiring for elective offices deserve prayers, CAN should not be viewed as a political platform, emphasizing that the Church will never take a partisan position.
Ugbede called on the Church in the state to remain prayerful and supportive of the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, to enable him succeed, adding that the Governor has executed projects that positively impact the lives of the people.
He stated that while CAN cannot prevent any Christian from joining politics or contesting elections, the Church’s role remains to offer prayers for all contestants rather than political backing.
The Deputy Chairman also commended Governor Alia for his support to churches in the state, including sponsoring medical treatment for some church members, noting that such gestures have further endeared him to the people.
Ugbede appreciated the Governor for ongoing developmental projects and urged the Church to continue praying for him and supporting his administration to achieve more for the people of Benue State.
In their separate remarks, Bishop Innocent Uzua (Zone A), Rev. Philip Gire (Zone B), and Pastor Adole Ejah (Zone C) commended the developmental strides of the Governor, while maintaining that they have not endorsed any politician for any position in the state.
They, however, pledged their full support for the Governor and offered prayers for him to meet the expectations of the people.