The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bauchi State Chapter, has threatened to take legal action against Bello Galadanci, popularly known as Dan Bello, over what it described as an “unyielding rebuttal to vile, malicious, and defamatory allegations” recently made by him against the association and its chairman, Reverend Abraham Damina Dumus.

In a recent video, Dan Bello accused Reverend Dumus of making several false claims in an interview with Morning Star News, including allegations of systematic persecution, violence, and marginalisation of Christians by Muslims in Bauchi State. Bello further alleged that Reverend Dumus fabricated these claims to attract foreign funding.

He accused Dumus of exploiting claims of Christian persecution in Bauchi to solicit international aid, an allegation that CAN categorically denies, describing it as false, reckless, and libellous.

The association labelled it a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of its leadership and mislead the public through lies, mischief, and malice.

In a statement signed by the secretary of CAN Bauchi, Rev. Mathew Wakili Laslimbo, yesterday, the association stated that Dan Bello failed to provide a single piece of credible evidence to support his “wild and baseless allegations.”

“Dan Bello’s claims are pure fiction, rooted in personal vendetta and petty jealousy, obviously fueled by hidden actors. These reckless statements constitute defamation per se under Nigerian law, statements so inherently damaging that their falsity and malicious intent are self-evident,” the statement read.

Citing sections 373 and 375 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, the association emphasised that false accusations intended to damage the reputation of an individual or organization amount to criminal defamation, which is punishable by imprisonment.

“We are currently consulting with our legal counsel and preparing to initiate decisive legal action,” CAN declared.

The association clarified that its chairman has never travelled to any Western country nor addressed any foreign assembly regarding the alleged issues, contrary to Dan Bello’s claims.

Wakili challenged Dan Bello to present flight tickets, audio or video recordings, venue details, or transaction evidence to support his assertions.

“Bello’s disgraceful remarks are not just an attack on one man they are an assault on the unity and sanctity of the Christian community in Bauchi. His comments were carefully crafted to incite division, provoke suspicion, and erode trust within the Church. This will not be tolerated,” the statement warned.

CAN described Bello’s comments as “inaccurate, provocative, and misleading,” noting they are a direct insult to the peace-loving people of Bauchi State and a threat to ongoing interfaith harmony.

The association emphasised that under the current leadership, Bauchi State has become a beacon of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in Northern Nigeria.

“Joint efforts by Christian and Muslim leaders spearheaded by CAN and its Chairman have become a model for other states. From peace summits to grassroots conflict resolution and interfaith dialogue, the evidence of unity is overwhelming.

“Christian and Muslim communities have lived together in mutual respect, thanks in part to CAN’s pivotal role in bridging religious divides. This peaceful climate didn’t arise by accident it was built through decades of deliberate effort, dialogue, and responsible leadership, which Dan Bello has chosen to ignore,” the association noted.

Wakili stressed that the leadership of CAN in Bauchi has remained transparent, accountable, and consistent in defending the rights of Christians across the state.

“Our Chairman has demonstrated integrity, fairness, and spiritual devotion. To attempt to drag such a legacy through the mud with lies is not only immoral but legally actionable.”

CAN confirmed it is in the process of filing a lawsuit for libel and defamation against Dan Bello, vowing not to allow the slander to go unpunished.

“If Mr. Bello has genuine grievances, he is welcome to pursue them through legal and honorable channels not by launching baseless public attacks.”

“Freedom of expression under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) does not include the right to defame or maliciously harm others. Mr. Bello will be held accountable in a court of law,” the statement noted.

Rev. Mathew Wakili Laslimbo called on the public, the Christian community, and all well-meaning Nigerians to disregard the “noise of a disgruntled individual with no moral or factual ground.”

“The truth will prevail. CAN Bauchi remains steadfast, united, and more determined than ever to protect the spiritual and social interests of our people,” he concluded.

-Leadership