The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State chapter, has cautioned the state governor, Jonah Jang against being a source of disunity in the fragile state.
The body gave the warning in a letter addressed to the governor dated November 18, 2014 and signed by leaders of 12 affiliate member churches, titled “Issues and concerns over the forthcoming 2015 elections”.
The letter was signed by CAN chairman, Rev. Soja J. Bewarang.
It further stated that “the cordial, prayerful and friendly relationship between Governor Jonah David Jang and the denominational leaders in Plateau provided a perfect opportunity for the governor to have taken the Church into confidence.
“It is reported that you have ‘anointed’ Senator GNS Pwajok, who is from the same clan, district and local government (Jos South) to take over from you as the next governor of Plateau State. If this is the case, viewed against the background that Governor Jang, himself having spent eight straight years in office, is ethically ill-advised for the governor to do this”.
They further warned that “Moreover there is a real risk of soiling the testimony of the Church and the name of Christ by a governor who loves and proclaims Christ. The governor cannot afford to ignore the cries of the people on this matter as it could plunge ethnic groups and tribes into confusion and pitch tribes against one another”.
The Christian leaders noted that political decisions have implications well beyond political circles and the state and these are realities or factors that cannot be easily ignored, considering the fact that the state is host to most church headquarters.
“Our prayer is that the Governor should avoid taking any political steps which could lead to the breakdown of law and order”, the letter read.