Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued strict guidelines prohibiting politicians from using church lecterns for campaign speeches or partisan politics during worship services.
The decision was announced after the episcopal consultation in the diocese of Nike, Enugu State, aimed to preserve the sanctity of worship and prevent the exploitation of religious gatherings for political gains.
The directive takes immediate effect across all Anglican dioceses in Nigeria, reinforcing the church’s commitment to maintaining spiritual focus amid political pressures.
In a memo signed by the primate of the church, Most Revd. Dr. Henry Ndukuba, the Anglican Communion expressed concern over the increasing trend of church services being turned into political platforms.
“The church must be a place of worship, not a campaign ground. While we welcome everyone, including those in government, we must safeguard our divine mandate and avoid any conduct that breeds division or bias,” Ndukuba stated.
The guidelines reinforced the church’s neutrality, emphasising that while it remained open to all, its primary mission is spiritual rather than political.
“Henceforth, the following protocols are to be observed: There must be prior discussion with any guest expected to address the congregation to offer appropriate guidance.
“Guests must be clearly informed that the church is not a platform for promoting partisan views 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 primate stated.
The memo further stated, “No church official should eulogise or exalt any guest in a manner that might bring the church into disrepute. Where possible, guests should not be permitted to use the church’s lectern when speaking, as it has been consecrated for the reading of God’s Word.”
While acknowledging its role in society, the church affirmed its responsibility to engage government authorities on matters affecting the faithful and society at large.
“The church remains open to all persons, including politicians and government officials, in both its services and other programmes,” Ndukuba stated.
Reaffirming its non-partisan stance, the Anglican Church clarified its duty to offer godly counsel without political alignment.
“The church remains committed, under God, to being the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13-14), upholding the nation in prayer, and offering godly counsel to those in positions of authority,” the primate added.
