Anglican church bars political rhetoric in services — days after Wike’s remarks

The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued a directive barring the use of its pulpits and platforms for political rhetoric.

In a memo shared on social media and signed by Korede Akintunde, its director of communication, the church said it had released new guidelines for all parishes on how to receive politicians and public figures.

The directive, dated July 11, followed an “episcopal” consultation held in the diocese of Nike, Enugu state, and was signed by Henry Ndukuba, primate of the Anglican Church.

“In light of the recent developments that have raised concerns about the use of church services as political platforms, with the attendant potential compromise of its integrity, the Church hereby provides guidelines for receiving politicians and government officials,” the memo reads.

Although no names were mentioned, the directive comes in the wake of comments made by Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT) on July 6 at St. James’ Anglican Church, Asokoro, during a thanksgiving service to mark the completion of projects commissioned by President Bola Tinubu.

At the event, Wike took aim at Peter Obi, Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, saying the former Anambra governor’s “time has passed” and suggesting that Nigerians “follow him without knowing who he is”.

The church, while affirming its openness to all people regardless of political affiliation, said the pulpit must not be used for partisan statements.

“To preserve its mandate and core values, the church must not become partisan in any of its programmes. All parishes are to hold a pre-discussion with any guest expected to address the congregation and guide such persons accordingly,” the memo added.

The church noted that invited guests must be informed in advance that the pulpit is not to be used for political purposes.

The memo further warned that “presiding officers must avoid making statements or conducting themselves in any way that suggests alignment with political or sectional interests”.

In addition, no church official is expected to eulogise political guests in a manner that could bring the church into disrepute.

The church also directed that “as much as possible”, guests should not be allowed to speak from the lectern, which it described as “consecrated for reading the word of God”.

While emphasising neutrality, the church clarified that its new guidelines do not signal a withdrawal from engaging with government on matters of public interest.

“The church must not shy away from discussing issues that concern the faithful and society at large with those in authority,” the memo added.

The directive is expected to take immediate effect across all Anglican dioceses in the country.