Ehis Agbon, Kaduna, March 10, 2025
The Christian Media Forum (CMF) has issued a heartfelt appeal to Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), urging him to intervene in an ongoing leadership crisis affecting the 19 northern states. The call comes amid escalating tensions between factions within the Christian community, as both Rev. Pam and Rev. Joseph Hayab assert their claims to leadership.
In a statement released on Monday, signed by Secretary Andrew Ibrahim Mshelia, the CMF expressed deep concern over the protracted discord that has plagued the Christian community in the region. The forum emphasized the need for peace, unity, and reconciliation among competing factions, stating, “We urge the warring factions to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance.”
The CMF articulated that the leadership tussle has not only embarrassed the Christian Association of Nigeria but has also negatively impacted the broader image of Christianity. The forum lamented, “This crisis has caused confusion, division, and embarrassment to the Christian community,” highlighting the urgency for decisive action from Archbishop Okoh.
Citing biblical principles from 1 Peter 3:8, the CMF reminded the factions of their collective responsibility to foster harmony and compassion. “As Christians, we are called to live in peace and harmony with one another,” the statement read, appealing for a concerted effort toward a peaceful resolution.
The CMF conveyed its commitment to promoting understanding and unity within the Christian community, underscoring that these qualities are crucial for the effective spread of the Gospel. The group expressed hope that Archbishop Okoh could leverage his position to bring the conflicting parties together, facilitating dialogue and compromise required to resolve the leadership crisis.
As the CMF awaits the Archbishop’s intervention, they prayed for the wisdom and strength to navigate the turbulent waters of this conflict. “We are confident that with God’s guidance, we will overcome this crisis and emerge stronger and more united than ever before,” the statement concluded.
The Christian Media Forum’s appeal signals not just a call for leadership resolution but a broader desire for the Christian community in northern Nigeria to embody the values of peace, love, and unity that are central to their faith.
