Nigeria’s Anglicans Threaten Split from Church of England Over Same-Sex Marriage

In a new controversy within the global Anglican Communion, the Church of Nigeria has threatened to sever ties with the Church of England following its decision to permit same-sex marriage.

Representing a substantial portion of the Anglican Communion, the Church of Nigeria views the decision as a departure from orthodox Christian teachings. In response, the Nigerian church has announced it will no longer recognize the Church of England’s authority if it proceeds with this change.

The Church of England’s General Synod narrowly voted in favor of same-sex marriage, with the House of Laity approving it by 95 votes to 91, and the House of Clergy by 99 votes to 88. This decision has been celebrated by LGBTQ+ advocates as a significant milestone, but it has also incited intense backlash from conservative Anglicans.

In a statement titled “Church of Nigeria’s Response to the Approval of the Living in Love and Faith Liturgy by the Church of England,” Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, Primate of the Church of Nigeria, condemned the decision as pivotal and divisive. Ndukuba warned that it could lead to a rupture of sacramental communion between the two churches.

“Should the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Church of England proceed to give effect to the Approval of the Living in Love and Faith Liturgy and allow their Clergy to engage in same-sex marriage, the Church of England risks the danger of a Broken Sacramental Communion with the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and other Faithful Anglican Provinces,” the statement reads.

The Nigerian church has long opposed same-sex marriage and has previously threatened to break away from the communion over this issue. This latest move signifies a significant escalation of the rift between the conservative and liberal wings of the communion.

The Church of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to Scripture as the authority and guide of the Church in doctrine, worship, and living. It also pledged to continue supporting faithful Anglicans through various organizations like GAFCON, GSFA, CEEC, and the Alliance.