Anglican Church Bans Politicians from Podium, Reaffirms Non-Partisan Stance

 Anglican Church Bans Politicians from Podium, Reaffirms Non-Partisan Stance

The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued new guidelines barring politicians and government officials from speaking from the pulpit during church services and programmes. The move is aimed at preserving the sanctity of worship and preventing the intrusion of partisan politics into spiritual gatherings.

In a memo signed by the Primate, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, and released on Saturday, the church said the decision was reached during a recent episcopal consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu State. The guidelines were distributed to all parishes nationwide.

According to the memo, the church is increasingly concerned about the use of religious platforms for political messaging, which threatens to compromise its neutrality and core spiritual values. As such, visiting dignitaries will no longer be allowed to use the church’s lectern, a space consecrated for reading the word of God, further emphasizing the sacredness of worship spaces.

The guidelines also stress that politicians and public officials must not use church platforms to deliver partisan speeches or propaganda. If any guest is expected to address the congregation, prior discussion with church leadership is required to ensure decorum and appropriateness. Church leaders are also advised to avoid statements or gestures that may be interpreted as politically biased or overly flattering to political figures.

While reaffirming the church’s commitment to inclusivity, the Primate emphasised that the church must remain a beacon of unity and moral clarity. “We welcome everyone, including public officials, to our services,” Ndukuba stated. “However, we draw a clear line against any form of partisanship or conduct that could sow division among our members.”

He added that the church’s primary role remains spiritual, committed to offering moral guidance, upholding the nation in prayer, and engaging with authorities on matters that impact the faithful—without compromising its integrity.