By: Daure David
In recent days, the Bauchi State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has come under unwarranted attack from Mr. Dan Bello—a self-styled critic whose recent public outburst amounts to nothing less than a character assassination against our respected Chairman and an assault on the very fabric of religious unity in Bauchi State.
Let it be known from the outset: Mr. Bello’s accusations are entirely false, unfounded, and defamatory. They are laced with venomous rhetoric and calculated mischief aimed at causing disaffection within the Christian community and disrupting the peaceful interfaith atmosphere that has flourished under the current CAN leadership.
Baseless Allegations and Reckless Defamation
Mr. Dan Bello has leveled accusations suggesting that our Chairman has undertaken clandestine foreign engagements, misused Church resources, and undermined Christian unity. We categorically and unequivocally deny these allegations. The CAN Chairman has never traveled to any part of the Western world, nor has he ever delivered an address to any foreign government, group, or religious assembly for any alleged controversial purpose. No such trip, meeting, transaction, or audio-visual evidence exists.
Mr. Bello has not presented a single shred of evidence—no documentation, no recordings, no financial trail—to support his fantastical claims. Instead, he has chosen to peddle half-truths and outright lies, hoping to damage the character of a man who has dedicated his life to service and unity. This is not criticism; it is malicious slander, and we will not take it lightly.
Legal Remedies in Progress
Under Nigerian law, particularly Sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code, such actions constitute criminal defamation—an offense punishable by imprisonment. In civil terms, his statements are defamatory per se: inherently damaging without need for further proof of harm. Our legal team is currently finalizing steps toward initiating formal proceedings against Mr. Bello for both libel and slander.
Furthermore, freedom of expression—though protected under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)—does not cover malicious falsehoods intended to tarnish another’s reputation. Mr. Bello’s abuse of this right will be met with the full force of the law.
A Record of Peace, Unity, and Leadership
The record of the CAN Chairman speaks for itself. Under his leadership, the Christian community in Bauchi State has enjoyed an unprecedented era of stability, cooperation, and advocacy. His style of leadership is marked by humility, accountability, and a tireless dedication to inter-religious harmony.
The collaboration between CAN and the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), which has produced several peace-building initiatives and interfaith dialogues, stands as a testament to this administration’s commitment to coexistence. Through joint summits, mediation platforms, and community outreach efforts, religious tensions have been significantly reduced.
These are not mere claims; they are documented achievements recognized by local authorities, civil society groups, and even international observers. That Mr. Bello seeks to undermine these efforts with reckless insinuations is both shameful and regrettable.
A Misguided Crusade of a Disgruntled Individual
It is evident that Mr. Bello’s motivations are not driven by truth or concern for the Church, but by personal vendetta and a desire for relevance. His statements are consistent with a pattern of seeking to inflame division rather than foster unity. His tactics are divisive, his language incendiary, and his intentions toxic.
He seeks to sow distrust among Christians and between faiths, at a time when unity is needed more than ever. Such behavior not only harms individuals but endangers the social fabric of Bauchi State. Mr. Bello may cloak his rhetoric in the garb of activism, but the naked truth remains: his actions are that of a saboteur.
A Call for Wisdom, Calm, and Focus
To the Christian faithful in Bauchi State and across Nigeria, we say: stand firm in the truth. Do not be swayed by the noise of a lone voice echoing in an empty chamber of self-interest. We ask you to remain discerning, to reject the falsehoods being peddled, and to continue supporting the leadership that has stood with you in times of peace and adversity.
To our Muslim counterparts and interfaith partners: be assured that this incident does not reflect any shift in our commitment to harmony and peace. We will continue to walk the path of dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
To civil society, the media, and the larger public: we urge you to verify, to scrutinize, and to hold truth above sensationalism. Inflammatory statements made without evidence should be condemned and rejected in every civil society.
Moving Forward
This episode, though unfortunate, has strengthened our resolve. CAN Bauchi remains undeterred, unbroken, and committed to its mission: to serve, to unite, and to defend the interests of Christians without compromising the peace of the state.
The Chairman of CAN has nothing to hide. His leadership is rooted in transparency, faith, and justice. Attempts to drag his name through the mud will ultimately fail, for lies have a short life, but truth endures.
We call on all peace-loving Nigerians, especially within Bauchi State, to rise above divisiveness and reject voices of confusion. CAN will remain a beacon of moral leadership, truth, and unity—undaunted by slander, untouched by blackmail.
Let us be reminded of the words of Scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). We will continue to be peacemakers, even in the face of persecution and false accusation.
