CAN Cautions Cleric Over Remarks on Oyedepo, Adeboye, Kumuyi

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a stern warning to Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry in Ilorin, over his recent public remarks concerning respected Christian leaders like Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor William Kumuyi. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh emphasized that the association would not tolerate statements that undermine the unity of the Church or spread falsehoods.

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We state, in the clearest possible terms: these allegations are entirely false, unfounded, and deliberately misleading.

CAN vehemently denied Omolehin's allegations of internal division and financial impropriety, particularly concerning the management of relief funds. Archbishop Okoh stated unequivocally that these claims are "entirely false, unfounded, and deliberately misleading." The association affirmed its unity and dismissed any suggestions of a split within its ranks as baseless.

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We are deeply troubled that these baseless claims were publicly propagated by Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry, Ilorin, without evidence and without regard for the potential consequences on national cohesion and the unity of the Church.

The association expressed deep concern over Omolehin's "unwarranted references" to prominent Christian figures, suggesting such comments could mislead the faithful and incite unnecessary tensions. CAN warned Omolehin and others against making unverified claims, stating that failure to desist from disseminating falsehoods or maligning the Church would compel CAN to take "all necessary steps, including legal action," to protect its integrity and that of the Christian community.

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We also note, with concern, the unwarranted references to respected Christian leaders; Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor William Kumuyi, in a manner capable of misleading the faithful and inflaming unnecessary tensions.

This intervention by CAN highlights the sensitivity surrounding leadership and unity within Nigerian Christianity. While Omolehin's sermon, which questioned the concept of a single "father" figure and suggested divisions along denominational lines, has sparked debate, CAN's firm stance underscores its role as a guardian of church unity and reputation. From a Nigerian perspective, maintaining cohesion among diverse Christian denominations is paramount, and CAN's proactive approach reflects this priority, differentiating it from how such internal church matters might be perceived or handled in Western contexts.

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Let it be unequivocally stated: CAN will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods or any attempt to malign the Church.