AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has issued new guidelines restricting political speeches by politicians and government officials during church services and programmes, in a bid to safeguard the sanctity and neutrality of Christian worship.
The directive was announced by the Primate of the Church, Most Revd Henry Ndukuba, during the recent Episcopal Consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu.
In a memo released on Friday by the Church’s Director of Communication, Korede Akintunde, the leadership expressed concern over the increasing trend of church platforms being used for partisan political expression, which it said could compromise the true purpose of worship.
“The church remains open to all, including politicians and public officials. However, it must not become a platform for partisanship,” the statement read.
The guidelines stipulate that any guest intending to speak during a service must first consult with church leaders, who will provide appropriate direction.
“Guests must be made to understand clearly that the pulpit is not a space for promoting political agendas or propaganda,” the memo added.
Church officials were also cautioned against making comments or displaying behaviours that could be interpreted as politically biased. Furthermore, no guest should be unduly praised in a way that might tarnish the church’s image.
To preserve the sanctity of the pulpit, the church advised that guests should not be allowed to use the lectern, which is consecrated for the reading of Scripture.
While affirming its readiness to engage with government on national issues, the Anglican Church reiterated its role as a moral compass in society.
“We are committed, under God, to being the light of the world and the salt of the earth,” Ndukuba said. “We will continue to offer godly counsel to those in authority and uphold the nation in prayer.”
