The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described as false and misleading claims circulating on social media that the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, was invited to serve as “Royal Father of the Day” at the proposed foundation-laying ceremony of an Ecumenical Chapel at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its Media Office, CAN distanced itself from the controversial narrative.
CAN clarified that at no time did it extend any such invitation to the Sultan, stressing that the information in circulation did not originate from its office.
According to CAN, the material being referenced was released by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), not the Christian body.
Beyond its inaccuracy, the narrative appears deliberately framed to provoke religious sensitivities and manufacture controversy where none exists,” the statement read.
CAN expressed concern that such misinformation could inflame tensions in a country where religious harmony remains a delicate but vital component of national unity.
It described the development as reckless and unacceptable, particularly at a time when Nigerians are urged to embrace peaceful coexistence.
Reaffirming its commitment to both the Christian faith and inter-religious harmony, the association noted that these values are not mutually exclusive but must be upheld together in the interest of national stability.
The body also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, urging the media, opinion leaders, and the public to prioritize accuracy over sensationalism.
“Truth must never be sacrificed on the altar of virality,” CAN stated, calling on stakeholders to verify claims before sharing them.
CAN further added that the Sultan of Sokoto was not invited to the event and urged Nigerians to disregard what it described as the handiwork of mischief makers.
