The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has banned politicians and government officials from speaking on any of its church’s podiums during services.
This notice comes a week after FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, held a thanksgiving service at St James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja for the commission of all his completed projects and used the podium to throw jabs at his political enemies.
In a memo signed by the Most Revd Dr Henry Ndukuba, Primate of the Church of Nigeria, the Church reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality and avoiding political partisanship. The directives were announced during the Episcopal Consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu.
The Church acknowledged growing concerns about the politicisation of religious gatherings, which it said could threaten its core values and divine mission.
The church also banned all its leaders from praising or glorifying political figures in ways that could damage the Church’s reputation.
It also stated that politicians and government officials must be told clearly that the Church is not a stage for promoting partisan opinions or political propaganda.
“Church leaders and officiants must refrain from making statements or behaving in ways that could be construed as politically aligned or sectional,” the memo added.
The Church further stressed that no guest should be allowed to speak from the lectern, which has been set aside for the reading of God’s Word. However, it clarified that politicians and government officials are still welcome to attend services and Church programmes.
“The Church remains committed, under God, to being the light of the world and the salt of the earth,” the memo read, referencing Matthew 5:13–14.
