CAN Abolishes Regional Structures Amid Leadership Crisis

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has formally abolished its regional structures, specifically the northern and southern chapters, in response to ongoing leadership controversies that have embarrassed the organization. This decision was announced in a public notice signed by the President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and General Secretary, Apostle Samson Fatokun.

The notice warns against anyone portraying themselves as chairman of the northern or southern chapters, citing violations of the association's constitution. The leadership crisis, which began in March 2025, saw factions led by Rev. Yakubu Pam and Rev. Joseph Hayab emerge, with disputes over leadership elections.

A federal high court in Kaduna ruled against Pam's challenge to Hayab's election, stating that the northern chapter lacked legal standing to sue. The court's judgment emphasized that properly incorporated bodies must defend lawsuits in their corporate name.

The situation has caused significant disquiet within the Christian community, prompting CAN's decision to abolish the illegitimate structures.