Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, the renowned founder of Adoration Ministries, Enugu, has expressed deep remorse and issued a heartfelt apology on behalf of Nigerian clerics who misused God’s altar during the recent 2023 elections.
The Catholic priest acknowledged that churches were shamefully used as platforms for political campaigns, where clergy members instructed their congregations on whom to vote for and even how to vote.
“As a prophet and man of God, I humbly apologize on behalf of all the men of God – pastors, priests, and bishops,” Fr. Mbaka stated. “While I may not have the authority to apologize on behalf of the bishops, I take it upon myself to do so. We must seek God’s mercy for the unimaginable political chaos, excessive manoeuvring, and atrocities witnessed during this political period.”
Fr. Mbaka expressed his concern that political forces and individuals with ulterior motives had overshadowed the sacred power of the sacrament. He strongly criticized the audacious attempt to transform the church into a campaign center and denounced the desecration of God’s altar.
“By defiling the altar, we have tarnished its sanctity. How can we expect the power of God to emanate from such a defiled place? We cannot continue with these sinful tactics. We have deeply offended God,” he passionately exclaimed.
The priest revealed that some clergymen went to the extent of dictating to their followers whom to vote for, imparting political ideologies within the sacred walls of the church. He expressed remorse for the distortion of divine imagery, where the image of the Holy Trinity was equated to a mere family picture.
Fr. Mbaka fervently prayed for God’s forgiveness, seeking mercy for the church, Christianity in Nigeria, and all those involved. With utmost sincerity, he concluded, “Forgive us, oh Lord! Forgive your church. Forgive Christianity in Nigeria. We have greatly erred this time. Amen! This is my humble plea. If you choose to misunderstand, it is beyond my control. I am offering my apology to God.”
