The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna State chapter, has dismissed former governor Nasir El-Rufai’s claim that Christians make up less than 25 percent of the state’s population, describing it as false and misleading.
Reacting in a statement on Monday, CAN chairman in the state, Rev. Caleb Ma’aji Bawa, said the assertion—made by El-Rufai during his appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television—contradicts verifiable data from the National Population Commission.
“As chairman of CAN in Kaduna State, I am outraged by Mr. El-Rufai’s claims, which are not only a gross misrepresentation of facts but also a manifestation of deep-seated animosity towards the Christian community,” Rev. Bawa said.
He also refuted El-Rufai’s allegation that Christian leaders in the state receive $20,000 for medical trips abroad, calling it “a fabrication designed to malign and discredit the Christian community.”
According to him, the former governor’s remarks amount to an insult to the dignity and integrity of Christians, who he said have made significant contributions to Kaduna State’s development.
The Christian body demanded an apology and retraction from El-Rufai, urging him to demonstrate a commitment to fostering interfaith harmony and understanding in the state.
