The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued fresh guidelines restricting politicians and government officials from speaking at the pulpit during church services and events.
The decision follows widespread criticism over a recent political outburst by Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), at a thanksgiving service held at St James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja.
Wike, who was attending the service to mark the completion of infrastructure projects, used the pulpit to criticise the church for nearly making a “costly mistake” in the 2023 general election.
He also attacked Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, declaring that he would “never be president”, and made several political comments about Nigeria’s condition before President Bola Tinubu assumed office.
In a memo signed by Henry Ndukuba, primate of the Church of Nigeria, the church announced that the directive was reached during a recent episcopal consultation in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu State.
According to the memo, the new protocol seeks to “preserve the sanctity of the pulpit and protect the integrity of Christian worship from the distractions and divisions of partisan politics.”
The church noted the increasing use of religious gatherings by public officials for political messaging and said this trend threatens its neutrality and spiritual focus.
“The church remains a place of worship, unity, and spiritual guidance,” the memo reads.
It emphasised that while all individuals — including public officials — are welcome at services, any guest wishing to address the congregation must first consult church leadership.
Such engagements, the memo said, must be devoid of political propaganda or statements that may be construed as partisan.
A key part of the new guideline includes the restriction of the church lectern, reserved for the reading of Scripture, from being used by visiting dignitaries.
Church leaders have also been directed to avoid language or conduct that could suggest political bias or undermine the church’s spiritual role.
Additionally, clergy are warned against excessive praise of visiting officials in a manner that could compromise the church’s integrity.
Ndukuba reaffirmed the church’s commitment to inclusivity but warned against behaviour that could “sow division among congregants.”
“While affirming its role as a moral compass in society and its responsibility to engage with government authorities on issues affecting the faithful, the church insists that its primary mandate remains spiritual,” he said.
He added that the church must continue to act as “the light of the world and the salt of the earth,” praying for the nation and guiding leaders with integrity and truth.