Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abuja (Fides News Agency) – No political event in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be allowed to take place at the Jubilee Hall of the Holy Ghost Cathedral in Enugu. The announcement was made in a statement signed by Father Anthony Aneke, Director of Communications for the Diocese of Enugu, in southern Nigeria.
"Since the event in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Barr. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, scheduled for Friday, July 3, 2026, at the Jubilee Hall of the Holy Ghost Cathedral in Enugu, is intended to serve as a political endorsement gathering, the Catholic Diocese of Enugu wishes to state that it does not permit the use of its churches, parish halls, or other ecclesiastical facilities for partisan political rallies, endorsements, or similar activities," the statement said.
"Consequently, the use of Jubilee Hall, Holy Ghost Cathedral, for the said political event does not reflect the policy or position of the Diocese and therefore will not hold at the said venue," the statement continued, concluding: "The Diocese regrets any misunderstanding that the announcement may have created."
The Diocese of Enugu's position is consistent with the policy of institutional neutrality toward party politics adopted by Nigeria's Catholic bishops. While maintaining this neutrality, the episcopate regularly speaks out on social, moral and governance issues in the light of the Church's Social Doctrine.
This approach combines the promotion of responsible citizenship and the common good with the provisions of Canon Law that limit the direct involvement of the clergy in active politics.
In early June 2026, the Diocese of Enugu hosted meetings and public discussions on civic education and the 2027 elections, with the aim of encouraging informed and responsible democratic participation.
In keeping with this approach, the Church does not endorse political parties or candidates, and its ecclesiastical facilities cannot be used for political rallies, partisan demonstrations or other party-political activities.
(L.M.) (Fides news Agency, 30/6/2026)
