Anglican Church of Nigeria Shuts Pulpit to Politicians After Wike’s Remarks
The Anglican Church of Nigeria has drawn a hard line: politicians will no longer be allowed to speak from the pulpit during church services.
This follows mounting criticism of what many see as the growing abuse of religious platforms for political grandstanding—most recently exemplified by a controversial appearance from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
During a thanksgiving service at St. James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja, Wike took the opportunity to make pointed political remarks while celebrating infrastructure projects.
The backlash was swift. Human rights lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor described the incident as a “shameful and sacrilegious outburst,” calling it a disgrace that desecrated the sanctity of the worship space.
Clips of Wike’s remarks quickly went viral, sparking outrage and debate across social and religious circles.
In response, the Church issued a directive, signed by Primate Henry Ndukuba, stating unequivocally that the pulpit is not a platform for political messaging.
The memo warned clergy and church officials to avoid any form of partisanship, either in speech or behavior, and to protect the integrity of Christian worship.
It emphasized that no guest, regardless of position, should be allowed to use the lectern—reserved solely for the reading of God’s Word—as a stage for political expression.
The Church made it clear that its doors remain open to everyone, including government officials, but only in the spirit of worship, not self-promotion.
It also reinforced its commitment to engaging with the state on national issues, but without compromising its spiritual identity or mission.
