The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a strong warning to Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministry in Ilorin, over recent public statements in which he referenced leading figures in Nigerian Christianity and questioned the structure of church leadership.
In a statement released on Wednesday, CAN President, Daniel Okoh, emphasized that the association would not tolerate comments capable of creating disunity within the Christian community.
The body also dismissed allegations suggesting internal division and mismanagement of relief funds, describing such claims as false, baseless, and misleading. CAN clarified that it neither received nor handled any such funds.
The association reaffirmed its unity, stressing that claims of a split within the organization are unfounded. It also expressed concern over the manner in which respected Christian leaders were mentioned in the controversial remarks, noting that such references could incite unnecessary tension among believers.
Among those mentioned were Enoch Adeboye, David Oyedepo, and William Kumuyi.
CAN criticized the use of these leaders’ names without proper context or evidence, stating that such actions could mislead the public and affect unity within the Church.
The association further warned Rev. Omolehin and others against making unverified or defamatory statements, noting that it would not hesitate to take legal action if such actions continue.
The warning follows a recent sermon by the Ilorin-based cleric, which has sparked widespread reactions across social media platforms. In the sermon, Omolehin questioned the concept of a single “father” figure in Nigerian Christianity, arguing that church leadership in the country is largely divided along denominational lines.
He suggested that prominent pastors such as Adeboye, Oyedepo, and Kumuyi should be regarded as leaders of their respective denominations rather than spiritual fathers over the entire Christian community.
Omolehin also criticized what he described as unhealthy competition among churches, referencing comparisons in infrastructure and material achievements.
His remarks have generated mixed reactions, with some supporting his perspective as a critique of denominational divisions, while others consider it inappropriate and disrespectful to established Christian leaders.
