Enugu Catholic Diocese Rejects Inclusion of Bishop in APC Campaign Council

The Catholic Diocese of Enugu has taken a firm stance against the unauthorized listing of Auxiliary Bishop Most Rev. Ernest Anezichukwu Obodo in the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council for Enugu State. In a recent disclaimer, the Diocese expressed outrage over the inclusion, emphasizing that the bishop was added to the list without his knowledge or consent.

Signed by Very Rev. Fr. Wilfred Chidi Agubuchie, the Diocesan Chancellor and Secretary, the statement described the act as a "malicious act of misrepresentation and defamation" that undermines the integrity and ecclesiastical reputation of Bishop Obodo. The Diocese also highlighted the potential legal ramifications of this unauthorized listing, indicating that they are prepared to take action should their demands not be met.

The controversy arises as Bishop Obodo, who is also the Enugu State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), was reportedly named the Director of the Faith-Based Campaign Group within the APC's campaign structure. The Diocese's statement not only calls for the removal of the bishop's name but also the names of other priests allegedly included without their approval, further emphasizing the need for respect for clerical authority and autonomy.

“The inclusion of Most Rev. Ernest Anezichukwu Obodo in the APC campaign council is unauthorized and misleading,” the statement read, calling for immediate rectification of the situation.

As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, incidents like this highlight the intersection of religion and politics, raising questions about the ethical implications of involving religious figures in partisan activities without their consent. The Catholic Diocese of Enugu’s vigorous response serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity of religious institutions amidst political maneuvering.