CAN issues serious warning to clerics

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Taraba State, Very Rev. Dr Fr Williams Awoshiri, has advised Christian leaders to exercise restraint in their sermons, warning against the misuse of the pulpit for divisive rhetoric, hate speech or political insults.

Awoshiri issued the caution on Saturday in his New Year message to Christians and residents of the state, stressing that the pulpit should remain a place for spiritual guidance, peace and moral instruction rather than conflict or hostility.

Describing the pulpit as a sacred responsibility, he said it must be handled with spiritual maturity and a deep sense of accountability.

“The pulpit is a sacred trust, a holy platform entrusted to us to proclaim the Word of God in truth, love, wisdom, and power,” Awoshiri said.

He acknowledged the Church’s role in shaping society and addressing national issues but warned that such influence should not be exercised in ways that inflame tensions or promote division.

According to him, careless utterances from religious leaders could worsen existing social and political challenges if not guided by wisdom and restraint.

“The pulpit must never become a platform for personal attacks, hate speech, incitement, or reckless utterances that deepen divisions in our society,” he warned.

Awoshiri emphasised that the primary mission of the Church remains the promotion of peace, moral discipline and godly values among the people.

“Our calling is to build faith, promote godly values, encourage peace, and nurture moral discipline,” he said.

While reaffirming the Church’s duty to speak out on issues of governance and justice, the CAN chairman stressed that such engagement must be responsible and constructive.

“While the Church has a prophetic role in speaking truth to power, such engagement must be constructive, prayerful and guided by wisdom and patriotism,” Awoshiri added