Aftermath of Wike’s Outburst: Anglican Church Warns Against Turning Churches into Political Platforms
…Issues New Guidelines to Protect Integrity of Worship
TEC News |
The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued fresh directives to all its parishes nationwide, aimed at curbing the politicization of church services. This move follows public outrage triggered by the controversial remarks made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, during a thanksgiving service in Abuja, where he declared that Peter Obi “cannot be president of Nigeria.”
Wike’s statement, made within the sacred confines of a church, has not only stirred political debate but has also raised serious concerns about the increasing trend of politicians using the pulpit as a platform for partisan declarations. In response, the Anglican Church has taken a firm stance to shield its altars from political manipulation and to preserve the sanctity of worship.
In a strongly worded memo signed by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, and circulated during the Episcopal Consultation at Nike Diocese, Enugu, the Church emphasized the need for renewed caution and neutrality when receiving political figures at any of its services or programmes.
The Primate noted that while the church remains open and welcoming to all — including public officials and politicians — it must not allow itself to be dragged into partisan controversies or serve as a platform for political endorsements or attacks.
Key Highlights of the New Guidelines:
Neutrality First: Churches must uphold neutrality and must not be seen as promoting or aligning with any political ideology or interest.
Pre-engagement Protocol: Any politician or government official expected to speak at a church event must first be briefed and guided to avoid divisive or partisan comments.
Restricted Use of Lecterns: Politicians and guests are discouraged from using the church lectern, which is consecrated for reading the Word of God.
No Political Eulogies: Church leaders and officials are forbidden from excessively praising or endorsing any guest in ways that could tarnish the church’s image.
Dignified Conduct: Presiding clergy must avoid comments or actions that may be interpreted as political alignment.
Engagement with Wisdom: While the church will continue to engage with government on matters affecting society, such engagements must be rooted in godly wisdom, advocacy for justice, and service to the people — not political favoritism.
The Church reaffirmed its commitment to being a moral compass in society, citing Matthew 5:13-14, which calls believers to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. It also pledged continued prayers and support for the nation’s leaders — while maintaining its prophetic voice and moral distance from partisan politics.
This development serves as a wake-up call to politicians who exploit sacred gatherings for political purposes, and a reminder to other churches across the country to guard their pulpits jealously. The integrity of the Church must remain above political theatrics, the Anglican leadership insists.
Averts