By Gabriel Ameh
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly refuted claims circulating online that the Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar was invited as “Royal Father of the Day” for the proposed foundation laying ceremony of an Ecumenical Chapel at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
In a press statement issued on April 18, 2026, CAN described the claim as false, misleading, and capable of inciting unnecessary religious tension.
The association clarified that at no time did it extend any invitation to the Sultan, emphasizing that the information in circulation did not originate from its office.
According to CAN, the document referencing the alleged invitation 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 warned against the spread of unverified information, especially on issues that could undermine national unity, stressing that such distortions are both reckless and unacceptable.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful coexistence, the association noted that promoting mutual respect among Nigerians remains central to its mission, alongside protecting the integrity of Christian worship.
It urged media practitioners, opinion leaders, and the public to prioritize fact-checking over virality, emphasizing the importance of responsible communication.
CAN concluded by reiterating that the Sultan of Sokoto was not invited to the event and called on Nigerians to disregard the circulating claims, describing them as the handiwork of mischief makers.
