Confusion as CAN Denies Kicking Against Signpost Tax in Abia State, Set To Sue Sahara Reporters

In a surprising turn of events, the Abia State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has publicly denied issuing any statement opposing the signpost tax imposed on churches by Governor Alex Otti's administration. This refutation comes after a Sahara Reporters article published on October 22, 2024, claimed that CAN had criticized the levy, reportedly calling it an unfair financial burden on religious institutions.

In an official letter dated October 23, 2024, and signed by Christian Association of Nigeria Abia Chairman Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma and Secretary Rev. Dr. Francis Okere, the association demanded that Sahara Reporters retract the article immediately. CAN stated that it "did NOT send any letter to Sahara Reporters for publication" and further denied authorizing anyone to make statements on its behalf regarding the signpost tax.

"The Christian Association of Nigeria, Abia State Chapter, disassociates itself from any missive, whether printed or virtual," the letter emphasized. CAN further warned that if the publication is not retracted within 72 hours, it will pursue legal action against Sahara Reporters for defamation.

The controversy surrounding CAN's stance on the signpost tax has polarized opinions across Abia State. Some residents argue that churches should contribute to such levies as they regularly use media advertisements, while others support Christian Association of Nigeria's presumed opposition, claiming the tax unfairly targets religious institutions. The association's denial, however, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the initial report, leaving residents questioning the authenticity of the criticism and the motivations behind the publication.

Meanwhile, CAN's demand for an apology from Sahara Reporters reflects a growing concern among religious leaders about the integrity of media representations involving sensitive issues.

As CAN awaits Sahara Reporters' response, the firm denial and potential legal action have intensified public interest, with both sides under scrutiny.