By Jefferson Ibiwale, Benin

The Edo State chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Peter Imasuen, has dissociated himself from the controversial N7 billion allegedly collected by pastors to mobilise support for President Goodluck Jonathan in the forthcoming election.

According Imasuen, who is the Bishop of Benin Diocese of the Anglican Communion, he was not present at the meeting of the Christian body where the said money was allegedly shared.

“They didn’t give me any money and I was not even there when we had the last CAN meeting. At that time, we were having the standing committee at Ughelli (Delta State). So, how would they have given me money when I was not at the meeting?’ Imasuen wondered.

The clergyman said he would rather focus on his calling than dabble in politics and that he had no need for the money.

“Collect the money for what? What will I use the money for? We are men of God, we are to pray for the peace of the country. At the time you now take money, how will God answer your prayer? I don’t run after riches. I run after blessings; riches come and go but blessings remain,” he said.

Imasuen stated that rather than collect money from a politician, he would vote only for who he felt was credible and who would move the country forward.

“I don’t belong to any party; once I know that you are a credible person, I can vote (for) you; vote for those that can stand and defend this country. We are praying God to give us a leader‎ who will lead us and lead the youths,’ he said.