Anglican Church bans politicians from using its podium after Wike’s controversial remarks
Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has introduced new guidelines for receiving politicians and government officials during church services and programs.
This decision comes in the wake of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s recent controversial statement during a Thanksgiving Service at St. James’ Anglican Church, Asokoro, Abuja.
The thanksgiving was for the successful completion of project inaugurations by President Bola Tinubu to celebrate his second year in office, reports National Accord.
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, during the thanksgiving service was presented with an Award of Excellence for his exceptional performance in infrastructural development in the FCT.
According to a statement signed by the Primate, Most Rev’d Henry Ndukuba, the guidelines aim to curb the increasing use of religious platforms for political messaging and protect the integrity of Christian worship.
“The Church insists that its primary mandate remains spiritual,” Ndukuba stated.
He said the decision was taken during the recent Episcopal Consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu State.
The new protocols include restricting politicians and government officials from speaking during church services and programs without prior discussion with church leadership. Church leaders are also instructed to avoid statements or actions that could be interpreted as politically biased.
“We welcome all individuals, including public officials, while firmly maintaining the Church’s non-partisan stance,” Ndukuba said.
“However, it draws a clear line against any form of partisanship or conduct that could sow division among congregants.”
The Church emphasized its commitment to inclusivity, affirming its role as a moral compass in society and its responsibility to engage with government authorities on issues affecting the faithful.
“The Church’s mission is to be ‘the light of the world and the salt of the earth,’ upholding the nation in prayer and offering guidance to those in positions of authority,” Ndukuba explained.
The guidelines are to ensure that the Church of Nigeria remains a place of worship, unity, and spiritual guidance, free from the distractions and divisions of partisan politics.
