By Nkechi Onyedika-Ugoeze, Abuja

Caretaker Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Gombe State chapter, Sunday Congo, has been suspended over his recent publication congratulating the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Pantami, on his appointment as Professor of Cybersecurity by the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

CAN directed Congo to relinquish his position in Gombe CAN Executive with immediate effect and hand over all CAN’s property to the next in line in his chapter.

In a letter dated September 15, 2021, CAN General Secretary, Joseph Daramola, noted that Congo’s publication of a release on behalf of the association without consulting the National Executive Council (NEC) was tantamount to unilateral decision and overzealousness.

It stated: “We write to inform you that your actions generated a lot of concerns among members. The publication was done without authorisation and clearance.

It is not only provocative, but undermines the CAN NEC. It does not, in anyway, represent their position. In view of the above, you are hereby directed to relinquish your position in Gombe CAN executive with immediate effect and hand over all CAN’s property to the next in line in your bloc.”

“In future, you are advised to consult and get approval from the authority of CAN at the national level, so that we all may speak with one voice.”

Daramola told The Guardian that CAN, as a body, speaks with one voice and wondered why the Gombe chairman could make such sensitive publication without consulting the NEC.

Confirming that he received the letter of suspension, Congo told The Guardian that he was out of the state and would make his stand known as soon as he returns.

-Guardian