By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – Leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) from the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have reaffirmed their confidence in Rev. John Joseph Hayab as the duly elected Chairman of the region, dismissing claims by the former leadership that they remain in office.

At a press briefing in Abuja over the weekend, key stakeholders, including state CAN chairmen, leaders of the Youth and Women Wings (YOWICAN and WOWICAN), and senior church leaders, addressed recent controversies surrounding the association’s leadership transition.

Apostle (Barr.) Shina Ibiyemi, representing the Kwara State CAN Chairman; Rev. Fr. Maurice Koli Hassan, the CAN Chairman of Jigawa State; the Chairman of YOWICAN in the 19 Northern States and FCT; and Ambassador Elizabeth Azizi firmly endorsed Hayab’s leadership and condemned attempts to undermine the newly elected executives.

Ibiyemi stated that the state chairmen were determined to correct misinformation spread during their pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

“On 25th February 2025, we convened in Abuja to elect new leaders for our esteemed association, resulting in Reverend Joseph John Hayab being appointed as Chairman. While many of us were away on pilgrimage in Israel and Jordan, the former chairman of the 19 Northern States and some unidentified leaders claimed they are still in charge. However, the legitimate leaders elected by the states are here today, with the authority to determine their leadership.”

He described the former leadership’s actions as unconstitutional, accusing them of resorting to threats and intimidation to maintain control.

“The actions of the former leaders of CAN in the 19 Northern States and the FCT are scandalous. How can an executive that has illegitimately extended its tenure issue threats after being asked to step down by those who elected them?” he said.

Rev. Fr. Maurice Koli Hassan reiterated that the election was legitimate and that the new leadership had the full backing of stakeholders.

“We are here to reaffirm what we agreed upon on 25th February. Together with stakeholders from across the Northern States, we gathered to discuss how to move the North forward,” he said.



https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/can-chairmen-affirm-hayab-as-leader-in-19-northern-states-fct/