The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued an official directive banning politicians and government officials from speaking on its pulpits during church services.
This directive, signed by the Primate of the Church, Most Revd Dr Henry Ndukuba, comes just a week after the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, held a prominent thanksgiving service at St. James’ Anglican Church, Asokoro, where he publicly criticized political rivals from the church platform.
This incident had sparked widespread concern regarding the increasing blend of politics and religious platforms.
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In a memo released after an Episcopal Consultation in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu, the Anglican leadership clarified that only ordained ministers are permitted to speak from the lectern, which is exclusively reserved for reading and preaching God’s Word.
The memo unequivocally states, “The Church is not a platform for political campaigns or propaganda.”
It further specifies that while politicians and officials are welcome to attend services, they “must not speak or be unduly glorified during worship.”4
The Church also cautioned its clergy and leaders to avoid political alignment and public praise for political figures, particularly if such actions could be misconstrued as endorsements or partisanship.
The memo emphasizes, “Church leaders and officiants must refrain from making statements or behaving in ways that could be construed as politically aligned or sectional.”
This decision reflects the Church’s commitment to safeguarding its spiritual integrity and public trust amidst growing concerns about the politicization of religious gatherings in Nigeria.
While politicians are still invited to worship and participate in other church programs, the Anglican Church affirmed its primary mission to be “the light of the world and the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13–14).
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