Date: July 2025
Source: Ripples Nigeria
In a decisive move to preserve the sanctity of the church, the Anglican Church of Nigeria has officially banned politicians from speaking on the pulpit during church services. This policy change follows controversial public statements made by Governor Nyesom Wike, who used the pulpit as a platform for political declarations.
According to Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, this decision aims to protect the church from being misused as a political stage. Clergy members across all dioceses have been instructed to enforce the ban strictly, ensuring the pulpit remains dedicated to preaching the gospel.
“The pulpit is sacred. It must not be defiled by politics or used to promote personal or party interests,” the Primate said in a recent statement.
This comes amid growing concerns about the increasing interference of political figures in religious gatherings, particularly during election seasons. While politicians are welcome to attend services like any other citizen, they will no longer be allowed to address congregations or make political remarks from the altar.
The Church emphasized that it remains apolitical and will continue to play its role as a moral compass and unifier for Nigerians across ethnic and political divides.
This move has sparked reactions from religious and political commentators alike—some praising it as necessary, others accusing the Church of stifling public discourse.
