Anglican Church Bans Politicians from Speaking on Pulpit

The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued a directive restricting politicians and government officials from addressing congregants from the pulpit during church services and events.

The guidelines, released in a memo signed by the Primate, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, were a key resolution from the recent episcopal consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu State. The new rules aim to safeguard the sanctity of worship and prevent the growing politicisation of church gatherings.

According to the memo, the church will no longer allow politicians to use consecrated lecterns, designated solely for the reading of God’s word, for speeches or remarks. Public officials are also prohibited from making partisan statements or political endorsements within church spaces.

The Anglican Church expressed concern over what it described as the increasing misuse of church platforms for political messaging. Primate Ndukuba said such practices threaten the neutrality and spiritual focus of the church, potentially dividing congregants and undermining the church’s core values.

“The church must remain a place of worship, unity, and spiritual direction,” the memo stated. “We must protect our altars from the distractions of political rhetoric and ensure they are reserved for divine purposes.”

The document, which has been distributed to parishes nationwide, calls on clergy and church leaders to maintain a non-partisan posture and refrain from publicly praising or endorsing political figures during services. It also emphasises that any official invited to speak must first consult with church leadership to ensure appropriate and respectful conduct.

While affirming the church’s role in engaging with government on moral and societal matters, Primate Ndukuba reiterated that its primary mission is spiritual. “The Church of Nigeria remains committed to being the light of the world and the salt of the earth,” he said. “We will continue to uphold the nation and its leaders in prayer, offering moral guidance without becoming entangled in partisanship.”

The Anglican Church’s position is part of a broader effort to preserve the integrity of Christian worship and ensure that political affiliations do not disrupt the spiritual life of the church.