By Newscount
The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has issued guidelines for receiving politicians and government officials during church services and programs, aiming to maintain its neutrality and integrity. The guidelines, signed by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, The Most Revd Dr Henry Ndukuba, emphasize the importance of welcoming all persons while avoiding partisanship.
According to the memo, church leaders and officiants are expected to refrain from making statements or behaving in ways that could be construed as politically aligned or sectional. Guests, including politicians and government officials, will be required to have prior discussions with church authorities to ensure they understand the Church’s stance on partisanship.
The Church also directs that guests should not use the Church’s lectern for speaking, if possible, as it has been consecrated for the reading of God’s Word. Additionally, no Church official should eulogize or exalt any guest in a manner that might bring the Church into disrepute.
This move mirrors similar actions taken by other churches in the region. For instance, the Anglican Church of Kenya recently prohibited politicians from addressing congregants during church services, with Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit announcing a nationwide ban on politicians making speeches in Anglican churches. The National Council of Churches of Kenya also prohibited political activities in its member churches, stopping politicians from making political speeches or announcing contributions during services.
The Church of Nigeria’s guidelines underscore its commitment to being the light of the world and the salt of the earth, upholding the nation in prayer, and offering godly counsel to those in positions of authority.
