Nigeria, July 13 -- The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has moved to bar politicians and government officials from delivering speeches during church services, following public outrage over a recent partisan outburst by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike during a Sunday service in Abuja.

In a strongly worded directive issued on Saturday, the Church said it will no longer allow political figures to use consecrated platforms such as the lectern for any purpose other than worship. The guidelines, signed by the Primate, Henry Ndukuba, were issued after an Episcopal Consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu State.

The decision follows mounting criticism of the increasing politicisation of church events, with the most recent flashpoint bein...