Writing By Daniel Karlmax, Editing By Godwin Duru
Group under the aegis of concerned Northern Christian Youth is calling on all christian leaders, especially those in Northern Nigeria to stand firm against external interference and uphold the integrity of the Church for the betterment of the region and the country.
The group also urges youths to remain vigilant and steadfast in defending the truth toward ensuring that the Body of Christ remains free from political contamination.
In a press statement, leader of the group Mr. Paul Katuka says any interference especially from politicians is an attempt to destabilize the spiritual leadership and sanctity of the church, warning that such energy be directed toward an objective criticism to drive purposeful and inclusive leadership for the overall progress of the region.
It explains that, the leadership of Northern CAN is not a political appointment, but a divine calling guided by structure, order, and the will of God, pointing also that, any attempt to impose leadership from outside will be resisted by every well-meaning Christian in the North.
“we strongly condemn the recent actions of Senator Simon Bako Lalong in congratulating Rev. John Hayap as the factional Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN in the North,”
“It is deeply troubling that a politician, rather than a recognized church leader, has taken it upon himself to validate an election whose legitimacy remains highly questionable,”
“Northern CAN is an institution governed by a structured system and clear bylaws. If this so-called election were truly legitimate, we would have expected congratulatory messages from the Baptist President, the National CAN President, or leaders of other denominations—not from a politician with no standing in the internal affairs of the Church”.
Paul Katuka describes Lalong’s actions as not just a mere political interest, but a calculated attempt to sow division within the body of Christ, saying his involvement has crossed the sacred boundary hence the church is not a political playground.
“This is not the first time Lalong has shown undue interest in matters that do not concern him. When Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam was removed from the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission NCPC Lalong was among the first to congratulate Bishop Stephen Adegbite,
“While that could be excused as political maneuvering, his involvement in the leadership of Northern CAN crosses a sacred boundary. The Church is not a political playground where backdoor manipulations and external sponsorships can dictate leadership,” he added.
Daniel Karlmax
