Religious and political tensions are intensifying as Nigeria heads toward the 2027 elections, with the Christian Association of Nigeria issuing a sharp warning against mixing sacred faith with partisan campaigning. Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN’s president, rebuked recent remarks by Precious Oruche, known as Mama Pee, who referenced Jesus Christ while making political statements about Peter Obi. The timing couldn’t be more sensitive.
“Jesus Christ is not a political candidate, a campaign slogan or a weapon to advance one politician against another,” CAN stated in no uncertain terms. Nigerians are free to support Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Bola Tinubu or any candidate they choose. But that freedom comes with limits. The association emphasized that political loyalty must never become so intense that politicians are spoken of in terms that diminish Christ’s reverence.
Meanwhile, fresh controversy has emerged involving President Tinubu. Von Batten, a figure linked to Atiku’s campaign, alleged he received a $3 million offer and an invitation to a confidential London meeting from someone reportedly connected to the president. The alleged purpose? Persuading him to halt a campaign concerning what he described as Tinubu’s alleged trafficking records. These claims remain unverified, and no evidence has been publicly presented linking any offer to Tinubu or his administration.
Von Batten claims he rejected the offer and plans to submit communications to US authorities. Can partisan politics be separated from religious fervour in such a charged environment? As 2027 approaches, the answer remains uncertain.
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