CAN Condemns Media Blackmail Targeting Seyi Tinubu Amid Widespread Backlash from Nigerians

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has publicly condemned what it describes as "media blackmail" targeting Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a statement released on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, CAN called for responsible journalism and urged Nigerians to reject narratives aimed at character assassination, particularly against the youth.

CAN’s Stance: Protecting Integrity and National Unity

Reverend John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of CAN in the Northern region, expressed concern over the spread of unverified information targeting Seyi Tinubu. "Just because Seyi is Tinubu’s son, he should not become a subject or object of media blackmail and propaganda to destroy him," Hayab stated. He emphasized that such actions are not only detrimental to individuals but also harmful to national unity and development.
"Spreading lies against anyone is not acceptable in our culture and religion," Hayab added, warning that no nation can grow when its people engage in destructive practices. He urged media outlets to adhere to ethical standards by thoroughly investigating stories before publication, stating, "No media should write any story about anyone based on hearsay without investigation."
CAN’s statement also highlighted the broader implications of media misconduct, particularly on the youth. "When you celebrate the destruction of another person today, you may be the next," Hayab cautioned. He called on Nigerians to denounce narratives aimed at character assassination to protect the country’s future generations from normalizing such behavior.

Context: Seyi Tinubu’s Controversial Spotlight

Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, has been a polarizing figure in recent years, often accused of wielding significant influence in his father’s administration. Reports have linked him to various controversies, including allegations of weakening the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), as noted by Okunomo in a related statement. Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima recently praised President Tinubu for making the 2025 Hajj affordable for many Nigerians, reflecting the administration’s efforts to appeal to religious communities.

Nigerians React: Skepticism, Frustration, and Accusations of Bias

While CAN’s statement aimed to defend Seyi Tinubu and promote responsible media practices, it has sparked a firestorm of reactions on social media platform X, where Nigerians expressed deep skepticism, frustration, and outright disapproval of the religious body’s stance. Many questioned CAN’s priorities, integrity, and potential political affiliations, with some linking the organization to past controversies involving the Tinubu family.

One user, Ọmọọba Adélẹyẹ ToluCHUKWU (@AnomalousPrince), compared the situation to the era of General Sani Abacha, a military dictator known for corruption. "The last time I saw a little level of state capture not as deep as this one was under Abacha regime," they wrote, suggesting that Seyi Tinubu’s influence reflects a troubling trend of political overreach.

Others, like Dr. Bankole A. (@BankolePhd), questioned CAN’s role in defending Seyi Tinubu. "Since when did CAN become an advocate for Seyi Tinubu? This association has become something else," they remarked, attaching an image of clergy in religious attire, likely referencing the 2023 "fake bishops" scandal during Tinubu’s presidential campaign. The scandal involved allegations that individuals were hired to pose as bishops to show religious support for Tinubu, a controversy that continues to haunt both the APC and CAN.

The "fake bishops" incident was a recurring theme in the reactions. ‘ỤGỤLỤ Conceptions’ (@Aluta_Panorama) sarcastically asked, "Which CAN? Is it the CAN of Tinubu fake bishops?" while Chidi + (@Chidire) dubbed the organization the "APC ‘can of bishops,’" implying that CAN is acting as a mouthpiece for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Frustration over CAN’s priorities was a major point of contention. Switchild (@ehimaggie) expressed alarm, writing, "Dear Christians we are in trouble with this association!! Has CAN visited Plateau and Benue in recent times that this is now their focus?????" This sentiment reflects widespread concern over ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, particularly in Plateau and Benue states, where hundreds have been killed in recent years. 

Many Nigerians feel that CAN should focus on advocating for these communities rather than defending Seyi Tinubu.
Sammy UgoNabo (@Sire_Sammi) echoed this frustration, asking, "What has CAN done about the pogrom of Christians going on in the country?" The term "pogrom" underscores the severity of the violence faced by Christians, often at the hands of armed groups like Fulani herdsmen and Boko Haram, with little accountability for the perpetrators.

Some reactions were more scathing. NATIONFIRST (@NATIONFIRS24497) accused CAN of being bribed, stating, "APC CAN of dollars should know, the druggy son is the one tormenting poor Nigerians with Nigeria security forces APC branch." This serious allegation suggests that Seyi Tinubu is using state security forces to oppress citizens, a claim that has surfaced in various forms since his father’s presidency began. 

Others, like Yemi-Daniels (@shanwatche) and Anthony Abakporo (@anthonyabakporo), resorted to mockery, calling CAN "CAN of fools" and "Ewu CANbeers " (with "Ewu" meaning "goat" in Igbo, a common insult).
Temidayo Akinsuyi (@Temi_GoodEnough) kept it short but sharp, labeling CAN as "Jobless CAN," implying that the organization has lost its relevance by focusing on this issue.

A Nation Divided: CAN’s Statement Sparks Debate

CAN’s defense of Seyi Tinubu has clearly struck a nerve, reigniting debates about the role of religious institutions in Nigerian politics. The organization’s call for responsible journalism and the protection of youth has been overshadowed by accusations of political bias, with many Nigerians pointing to the "fake bishops" scandal as evidence of CAN’s compromised integrity. The focus on Seyi Tinubu, amid ongoing challenges like religious violence and economic hardship, has left many questioning whether CAN truly represents the interests of its Christian community.
As the conversation unfolds, this controversy highlights the deep divisions in Nigerian society, where political influence, religious authority, and public trust continue to clash. 

source: Guardian.