The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has appealed to the House Committee on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to conduct a transparent and unbiased investigation into the approval of an airstrip license for the Living Faith Church Headquarters, also known as Canaanland, located in Ota, Ogun State.
In October, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the issuance of the license, allowing the church to construct an airstrip.
He clarified that the facility would remain under the supervision of the Federal Government through the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
This announcement followed concerns raised by members of the House of Representatives, who suggested revoking airstrip licenses issued to private entities due to security risks.
In a statement on Saturday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, acknowledged the concerns of the lawmakers regarding security and misuse of the airstrips, noting however, that the church 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 the claims, adding that the church was committed to legality and transparency.
He called on stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, noting that the situation presented an opportunity to strengthen the trust between religious organisations and the state, and that CAN was ready to support efforts to strengthen national security and uphold the right and freedom of religious institutions.
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 read.
