Anglican Communion Restricts Political Activities In Churches

By Ayodele Oni

The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has banned politicians from using its lectern for campaign matters.

At the just concluded episcopal consultation at Nike Diocese in Enugu, the Anglicans set guidelines for the reception of politicians and government officials in Church services/programmes across all its Churches.

The guidelines, signed by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, stated that “As much as possible, guests should not be encouraged to use our lectern while addressing the Church, considering the fact that the lectern has been consecrated for reading the word of God.

“It must be clearly communicated to the guest that the Church should not be turned into a political platform for disseminating partisan issues.

“The Church is open to receiving everybody, including politicians and Government officials, in its services and other programmes.

“In the light of the mandate of the Church and its inclusivity, the Church cannot afford to be partisan in any of its programmes.

“The church must, therefore, guard against speeches and whatever else that may cause division and partisanship in the body of Christ.

“There is need for a pre-discussion with any guest who is expected to address the Church so as to guide him/her accordingly.

“The presiding officers of the church must avoid making statements or conducting themselves in any manner that may be seen to be serving political or any sectional interest.

“No church official is expected to eulogize church guests in any manner that will bring the church to disrepute.

“The Church noted that being part of the body-politic, it should not shy away from discussing with the government issues that are of interest to the faithful and society at large.”