The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has appealed to the House Committee on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to conduct a transparent and impartial investigation on the airstrip license approval for the Living Faith Church Headquarters also known as Canaanland in Ota, Ogun State.
Naijaonpoint reports that the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had in October, announced the granting of the licence to the church for the construction of an airstrip.
The Minister revealed that the airstrip would be managed by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
This development subsequently led to concerns amongst the House of Representatives, who advocated for the revocation of airstrip licences issued to certain individuals and private organisations.
Speaking in a statement on Saturday, the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, acknowledged the concerns of the lawmakers, however, it argued that the body adhered to all legal requirements in securing the licence.
Okoh urged the lawmakers to refrain from associating the church with potential illegal activities without substantiating their claims.
The CAN President said, “As the House Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance undertake their investigation, it is imperative that this process remains transparent and impartial.
“To prematurely associate the church with potential illegal activities, without substantive evidence, risks undermining the integrity of both religious institutions and regulatory bodies. The church stands firm on its commitment to legality and transparency.
“We urge the lawmakers to consider the broader implications of their actions and rhetoric, ensuring that religious undertones do not cloud objective judgment.”
According to Okoh, Canaanland has always been a stronghold for peace, development, and community service.
“It is essential to recognise that revoking the license without substantial evidence could unjustly undermine the rights of religious organisations and set a troubling precedent for future cases. Demonising its efforts without just cause does a disservice not only to the church but to the principles of justice and fairness that bind our nation.
“As we await the outcome of the investigation, we call on all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation. Let this be an opportunity to strengthen, rather than fracture, the trust between religious communities and the state. The Christian Association of Nigeria stands ready to support measures that enhance national security while upholding the rights and freedoms of religious institutions,” the statement added.