In a recent interview on Afia TV Official, on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, the Archbishop of the Enugu Ecclesiastical Province of the Anglican Communion and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Enugu North, Most Rev. Sosthenes Eze, criticized comments made by presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala regarding the role of religious leaders in speaking on national issues.
During the interview, Rev. Eze stated, “I’m not sure he has ever read his Bible; if he had, he couldn’t be saying that.” He made the remark while responding to comments attributed to Bwala concerning the Catholic bishops’ recent engagement with President Bola Tinubu and the criticisms they expressed about the state of the nation.
According to the Anglican cleric, the Bible provides several examples of prophets and religious leaders confronting those in authority whenever justice, righteousness, and the welfare of the people were at stake. He argued that the responsibility of the clergy extends beyond church activities and includes serving as the moral conscience of society.
Rev. Eze cited biblical figures such as Nathan, John the Baptist, and Apostle Paul, maintaining that they openly challenged leaders when necessary. He said religious leaders should not be criticized for expressing concerns about governance, insecurity, and economic hardship affecting citizens.
The Archbishop further maintained that attempts to discourage clerics from commenting on national affairs amounted to a misunderstanding of their biblical mandate. He urged political leaders to welcome sincere advice and constructive criticism rather than viewing such interventions through a political or denominational lens.
He concluded by encouraging leaders at all levels to remain open to honest counsel, emphasizing that listening to constructive criticism and acting in the public interest are essential qualities of responsible leadership.
