Northern Christian Forum Denies Rift With CAN
The Chairman of the Northern Christian Forum, Rev. Joseph Hayab, has dismissed reports of a conflict between the forum and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
Hayab described the viral story as false and misleading. He insisted that Northern Christian leaders remain united with CAN.
Hayab Calls Viral Article Fabricated
Rev. Hayab addressed a widely circulated article claiming Northern Christians had cut ties with CAN.
The article alleged that leaders in the North abandoned CAN because of the actions of Christians in the South.
Hayab rejected the claim. He said the report misrepresented the position of Northern Christian leaders.
He referred to the article titled “Oluremi Tinubu Bombshell: How First Lady’s CBN News Interview Became The Final Nail In CAN’s Coffin As Northern Christians Dump Umbrella Body, Register NCA.”
According to him, the article may appear convincing but it is completely fabricated.
“The article was beautifully written but it is false. It was designed to misrepresent Northern Christian leaders,” Hayab said.
Northern Christians Still Part of CAN
Hayab stressed that the Northern Christian Forum maintains strong ties with CAN.
He explained that churches across Northern Nigeria still operate under the umbrella of CAN.
“All churches in the North are with CAN and they are also with us,” he said.
“We are not fighting anyone. We are active members of CAN. There is no conflict and there is no need for any reconciliation.”
Why the Forum Changed Its Name
Hayab explained that CAN leaders actually advised the group to adopt a different identity.
According to him, the change was necessary to avoid confusion whenever Northern Christian issues arise.
He revealed that CAN recommended the forum should not use the name “Northern CAN.”
“We agreed with the CAN President after a meeting held on October 23 last year,” he said.
“The goal was to avoid confusion in the media.”
Forum Predates CAN
Hayab also clarified that the Northern Christian Forum existed long before CAN.
He said the body first emerged in 1964.
According to him, the current development simply restores the forum’s original identity.
“What we have done is return to our original name,” he explained.
Hayab Praises CAN President Daniel Okoh
Hayab expressed deep respect for the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
He said those spreading the story of conflict are trying to create division.
“He is the last person anyone would want to hurt,” Hayab said.
“The reports suggesting friction are completely out of context.”
He explained that CAN focuses on national issues while the Northern Christian Forum addresses regional concerns.
Forum Not Against Government
Hayab also rejected claims that the Northern Christian Forum is anti-government.
He said the group simply believes in speaking the truth for the sake of national development.
According to him, responsible governments should welcome honest feedback.
“We tell the government the truth because we love this country,” he said.
“We want Nigeria to grow and develop.”
Forum Focuses on Northern Christian Challenges
Hayab noted that the forum will focus on issues affecting Christians in Northern Nigeria.
These include:
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Religious freedom
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Access to education
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Shortage of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) teachers
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Limited admission opportunities for Christian students in some northern institutions
“These are serious challenges that require focused attention,” he said.
“Our goal is to ensure our people are treated as equal citizens.”
Decision Taken at Kaduna Stakeholders’ Meeting
The decision to adopt the new identity was made during a stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna.
The meeting included CAN chairmen, secretaries, youth leaders, and women representatives from the North.
The forum represents Christian leaders across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Hayab emphasized that the move does not represent a breakaway from CAN.
“We are still part of CAN,” he said.
“We simply want a clear identity when speaking about issues affecting Christians in Northern Nigeria.”
