Catholic Bishops Warn Against Campaign On Pulpits

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), have called on its priest and religious not to use their pulpits for political campaigns or the endorsement of any politician or political party.

In a statement made available to THE WHISTLER by the Catholic Secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, the bishops noted that the ongoing political realignment in the country has created tension, restating its political neutrality.

“We have observed that the political atmosphere is very tense and also noticed the Political realignment that is taking place. Some politicians are changing political parties and urging their supporters to switch over their support to their new parties as well.

“Given this development, we wish to use this opportunity to make it clear that the Catholic Church remains ever apolitical and does not endorse or subscribe to any political party,” a statement signed by Archbishop Augustine Akubeze, president of the CBCN, and Bishop Camillus Umoh, secretary, read.

They further stated; “we hereby declare that no Catholic clergy or religious should publicly endorse any candidate for political office. Liturgical ceremonies must never be used as an opportunity for political campaigns.

“Similarly, ecclesiastical properties should not be used as places for support for any political candidate or party. All priests and religious should avoid giving the impression that the Church favours one candidate over another or one political party over another.”

The bishops called on Catholic faithful to pray as “these are difficult times in the history of Nigeria. As people of faith we must work hard and also pray hard for the future of Nigeria.”