The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a firm warning to clerics in the country who are engaging in partisan politics without proper ecclesiastical authorization.
In a statement released early this week, signed by Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the CBCN, and Bishop Donatus Ogun, Secretary, the CBCN expressed deep concern over the increasing involvement of priests in political activities, which contravenes Church law.
The statement cited Canon 285 §3 and Canon 287 §2 of the universal laws of the Church, which prohibit clergy from assuming public office or engaging in political activities. The CBCN noted that “despite previous appeals and warnings, some priests have continued these actions, causing scandal among the faithful.”
The CBCN stated, “that violators will face serious canonical penalties, including suspension from exercising their priestly duties as per Canon 1333 and potential additional sanctions under Canon 1336.” In persistent cases, disobedient clerics may be dismissed from the clerical state under Canon 1371 §1 with the authorization of the Dicastery for Evangelization.
The statement also noted that these prohibitions extend to members of religious institutes in accordance with Canon 672, urging religious superiors to enforce these rules.
The CBCN called on all priests to remain faithful to their sacred duties and to avoid any actions that could jeopardize the Church’s integrity or lead to scandal within the community.
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