The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has officially barred politicians and government officials from speaking on its podiums during church services. The decision comes just one week after Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, held a thanksgiving service at St. James’ Anglican Church, Asokoro, Abuja, where he used the pulpit to address and throw jabs at his political rivals.
The announcement was made via a memo signed by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Revd Dr Henry Ndukuba, following an Episcopal Consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu.
According to the directive, the Church reaffirmed its stand on maintaining political neutrality and distancing itself from any form of partisanship. The move, church leaders said, is to safeguard the sanctity of worship and preserve the Church’s divine mission from the encroachment of political agendas.
The memo addressed increasing concerns over the politicisation of religious gatherings, warning that such practices could compromise the integrity and spiritual focus of church services.
In addition to restricting political speeches, the Church also issued a ban on clergy and church leaders from publicly praising or glorifying political figures, stating that such actions may tarnish the Church’s reputation.
“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 declared that no guest, including public officials, should be allowed to speak from the lectern—a sacred space designated for the reading of Scripture.
However, it emphasized that politicians and government officials are still welcome to attend worship services and Church programmes, provided they do not use the pulpit to advance political messages.
“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.
