Enugu diocese rejects APC campaign list naming its bishop

The Catholic Diocese of Enugu has rejected a campaign list from the state's All Progressives Congress (APC) that names its Auxiliary Bishop, Most Rev. Ernest Anezichukwu Obodo, as a director in a faith-based campaign group.

In a disclaimer dated October 30, the diocese said the bishop's name was added without his knowledge or permission. It also said some Catholic priests were listed without their consent.

The statement was signed by the Diocesan Chancellor and Secretary, Very Rev. Fr. Wilfred Chidi Agubuchie. It described the listing as misleading and unacceptable.

According to the diocese, the entry could make people think the bishop backs a political party, which it said damages his reputation and that of the Church.

The diocese said Bishop Obodo has condemned the listing as misrepresentation and defamation.

Church says it stays out of partisan politics

The diocese restated the Catholic Church's position that it does not take part in campaigns and does not back any party. It said the Church remains neutral and focused on its spiritual work and on peace, justice and the common good.

It added that individual Christians are free to use their civic rights, but no person or group should use the Church's name, office or ministers for political gain.

The diocese asked the APC to remove the bishop's name and those of the other priests from the campaign list and any related publications.

It warned that any further use of the bishop's name, title, image or office for politics would attract appropriate legal action.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the Catholic Church is not a political campaign organisation and must not be presented as one," the statement said.

The APC in Enugu has not responded publicly to the disclaimer in the reports reviewed.