By PHILOMINA ATTAH

The Nigerian College of Bishops and Peace Initiative Movement (NCBPIM) has urged he Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to publicly distance itself from clerics allegedly involved in the commercialisation of spirituality to secure political appointments.

The National President of NCBPIM, Bishop Abel Kingston, made the call on Wednesday during a peaceful protest in Abuja, saying the move was necessary to protect the integrity of the Christian faith.

Kingston said the demand followed social media reports linking some Christian leaders to alleged bribery and fraudulent schemes aimed at influencing government postings.

He also referenced an ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving the founder of a popular church and a prominent Abuja figure.

According to him, the growing trend of “transactional spirituality” and influence peddling is an embarrassment to the body of Christ and runs contrary to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

“What troubles many Nigerians is the dangerous message such actions send. Christianity does not teach the buying of political offices or support spiritual manipulation for earthly power.

“The body of Christ must not be associated with doctrines rooted in materialism rather than the Gospel. We must not endorse secret financial dealings disguised as prophecy,” he said.

The Bishop said CAN, as a regulatory umbrella body, must reaffirm its commitment to truth, justice, accountability and godly conduct.

He warned that silence from the association could be interpreted as approval, potentially damaging the reputation of the Church in Nigeria.

Kingston said holding religious titles should not shield individuals from accountability for actions that contradict biblical principles of honesty and transparency.

“Any conduct that creates public scandal or associates Christianity with financial influence over government appointments must be addressed decisively by the leadership,” he added.

The group also called on security agencies and relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into all individuals linked to the alleged transactions.

He said justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to deter abuse of religious platforms for personal gain.

Kingston urged Christians to return to the core teachings of the Gospel and reject practices rooted in manipulation and materialism. (NAN)