CAN President Stirs Debate by Joining Muslims for Iftar, Calls for Religious Unity

In a move that has ignited both praise and controversy, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. Daniel Okoh, joined Muslim faithful at the Al-Habibiyya Mosque in Abuja on Thursday to break their Ramadan fast (Iftar).

Okoh’s presence at the event, where about 2,300 fasting Muslims were fed, has raised eyebrows among some Christian and Muslim groups, with critics questioning the implications of such interfaith engagements. However, Okoh defended his decision, emphasizing the need for religious tolerance and unity.

What Is the CAN President Doing in a Mosque?

Addressing skeptics, Okoh boldly stated: To those wondering what the President of CAN is doing in a mosque, I say this: I have come here, and I will come again.”*

He stressed that Muslims and Christians share common values and must find ways to coexist peacefully. His remarks have fueled a wider debate on religious coexistence, with some welcoming the gesture as a step towards national unity, while others view it as unnecessary or even controversial.

Religious Harmony or a Blurring of Boundaries?

The National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyya Mosque, Sheikh Fuad Adeyemi, defended the initiative, saying the Ramadan feeding program welcomes all Nigerians, regardless of faith. *“We should recognize what unites us as human beings and as people destined to share the same environment,”* he said.

While many see Okoh’s participation as a progressive step towards interfaith dialogue, others argue that such moves could blur doctrinal lines or be misinterpreted as political maneuvering.

With religious tensions often influencing Nigerian politics and society, Okoh’s bold stance has sparked intense discussions: Is this a necessary step towards peace, or is it an overreach that could stir further religious debates?